Menopause, A Hot Topic!

03rd, Mar 2020

The menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life that usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, as a woman's oestrogen levels decline.

In the UK, the average age for a woman to reach the menopause is 51, however 1 in 100 women experience an early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency under the age of 40.

Oestrogen Hormone Levels: 

The Menopause presents itself at the point in time 12 months after a woman's last period. However, in the years leading up to that point, women can experience several symptoms. This is called the menopausal transition, or perimenopause.
 
75% of woman have symptoms and these may last on average 5 years, however symptoms can sometimes last for more than 5 years.
 
Symptoms associated with the menopausal transition include:

• Anxiety
• Low mood
• Poor concentration and memory
• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Insomnia
• Vaginal dryness

What treatments are available?

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about menopause and the treatment options available, however it is vital women are given accurate information to help them make an informed choice as to how best to manage their symptoms and improve their general health and wellbeing.  

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT is a treatment which replaces hormones that are at a lower level as you approach the menopause. It provides symptom relief alongside heart and bone protection and aims to outweigh menopausal symptoms helping you get back on track and feeling like your normal self. Woman under the age of 40 are also recommended to take HRT even if asymptomatic for heart and bone protection.
 
Speak to a GP if you're interested in starting HRT. There are a range of HRT options available to suit you!
 
You can usually begin HRT as soon as you start experiencing menopausal symptoms.
 
There is a small risk of breast cancer with some HRT preparations however the risk is lower than being overweight or drinking alcohol regularly. For the majority of women, the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks.

There are several natural ways which can help relieve menopausal symptoms:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding trigger foods such as caffeine, alcohol and sugary or spicy foods
• Stop smoking
• Drinking 8 - 12 glasses of water a day
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

If you would like to book an appointment please contact 028 9066 7878 or email us at info@kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com.

Alternatively, you can book online at kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com