Ask the Experts- March 2020

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

Is menopause something to dread?  I am just starting to have symptoms and I don’t know what to do.

Help me please.

Evelyn

Dear Evelyn,

Thanks for writing to us. No, you do not have to dread menopause. In fact, Margaret Mead, a famous anthropologist, once said “the most creative force in the world is the menopausal woman with zest”. So, please don’t fear menopause or view it as a time of gloom. If you understand the changes that occur during menopause and learn what you can do about them, this minimizes the negative effects that accompany some of the symptoms associated with it. By gaining knowledge, it even may make menopause a more positive experience.

You did not mention which symptoms you were experiencing. However, many women experience the notorious hot flash. A hot flash is a sudden feeling of intense heat. They also may occur at night. Hot flashes may be aggravated by caffeine, alcohol and eating spicy foods. So you might want to avoid some of these drinks and foods.

Some home treatments for hot flashes are making sure you keep cool. Dress lightly in layers, drink plenty of water and maintain a regular exercise program. Some clinicians believe hot flashes are lessened by exercise. It also helps raise endorphins helping mood issues many women have and helps with sleep. And, of course it will help you to maintain strong bones.

Your clinician may also discuss various treatment options with you. Some are prescribed hormone therapeutic options , as well as other prescribed therapies. He/she may talk about alternative ways to treat hot flashes. Before making any decisions give careful consideration about the benefits and risks of any treatment.

Finally, by understanding menopause, you will feel more confident about what you need to do to manage its course.