Menopause: Managing Symptoms & Treatments
Posted by Kate Fitton on
October is an important month for women as it is World Menopause Month. This month is used to raise awareness about menopause and the symptoms that go along with it, as well as to provide information about the supports that are available to help improve women's health and quality of life.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is a significant milestone in a woman's life as it marks the end of her reproductive years, when monthly cycles come to a close. After twelve months without any period cycle menopause is officially determined. Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life, but it also comes with its challenges. Menopause brings many changes within the body. One of the big symptoms of menopause is hormonal change which can tremendously affect how a woman feels both physically and emotionally.
The average age for a woman to reach menopause is 51, but it can happen anywhere between the ages of 45 and 55. According to the Department of Health, menopause and perimenopause can result in hot flushes, changes to periods, mood swings, anxiety, and brain fog. Women may experience symptoms years before and after the end of their menstrual cycles. These symptoms can be disruptive to daily life and can vary between women.
Menopause And Common Symptoms
Hot flushes which many women experience during menopause and perimenopause can occur at any time of day or night which result in night sweats. These hot flashes can often lead to discomfort and disturbed sleep at night. The effects of hot flashes or night sweats can be more extreme for some women leading to energy reduction which can affect ones physical and emotional wellbeing. Women may also experience mood changes during this time due to the decline in levels of the hormone’s oestrogen and progesterone in the body.
- Hot flashes
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Sleep problems
- Mood changes
- Weight gain and slowed metabolism
- Thinning hair and dry skin
Treatments For Menopause
For many women menopause may not require any medical treatment such as hormone replacement therapy but instead many other options may suffice in relieving symptoms. To help alleviate the effects of menopause, healthcare professionals have devised a variety of treatments such as the curation of food supplements and herbal remedies. Vitamins and herbs can work with the body to regulate hormones and improve overall health. Natural supplements can be used to prevent or reduce perimenopause and menopause symptoms, rather than just providing temporary relief.
According to the HSE, women typically loose bone mass when they transition through menopause, which usually occurs at the age of 50-55 years. Bone loss often occurs at this time as oestrogen levels drop which causes a lack of bone development. High levels of oestrogen are needed to help maintain healthy bones in this stage of woman’s life. As oestrogen levels decrease, bone density is also reduced, putting women at a higher risk of fractures and injuries.
Vitabiotics Menopace Calcium Tablets are designed to support bone health, heart health, and hormonal balance, these tablets contain essential nutrients that are crucial for maintaining normal bones. Calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium are all included to ensure the maintenance of healthy bones. Taken daily, this supplement helps your body absorb key nutrients to help you maintain strong bones and a healthy cardiovascular system. Essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium are carefully balanced to support healthy hormone levels.
Cleanmarine MenoMin is rich in Omega-3, Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12 and D3, as well as Rosemary Extract, Soy Isoflavones, Folate and Biotin. Vitamin B6 helps regulate hormonal activity, biotin helps maintain normal mucous membranes, Vitamin B2 reduces tiredness and fatigue, and Vitamin D helps maintain healthy bones.
Serotonin levels may decrease as women age, therefore B-6 supplements can be advantageous for raising serotonin levels. Hormonal balance and mood enhancement can be improved with B-6 supplementation. According to the National Institutes of Health, it is recommended for women to take 1.3mg of B6 for women aged 50 and younger and 1.5mg for those 51 and older.
References: Government of Ireland, Department of Health, 2022, Menopause Explained, gov.ie - Menopause explained (www.gov.ie)
Health Service Executive, 2022, Menopause, Things You Can Do, Menopause - Things you can do - HSE.ie
The National Institute of Health, 2023, Vitamin B6, Fact Sheet for Consumers, Vitamin B6 - Health Professional Fact Sheet (nih.gov)