Red Hot Mamas In Charge of Change.
By: Red Hot Mamas
Published: May 26, 2010
Menopause is one of the major turning points in a woman’s life. Approaching menopause involves a process of change and every woman experiences the transition in unique and individual ways.
Many women discover that menopause gives them a new lease on life, physically, emotionally, sexually, and spiritually. They are enthusiastic about becoming free of their concerns about pregnancy and menstruation. However, some women dread menopause. They view it is an affliction that will make them unattractive, lonely, helpless, and useless. In addition, they may mourn the loss of their fertility and youth. Women may also experience a wide range of feelings, from anxiety and discomfort to release and relief.
But the truth is that for most women menopause is not about extremes before, during, or after. Most adapt to the changes and continue to live well and healthy through these transitions.
If you are like most of today’s women, you will live a third of your life after menopause. That is precisely why we at PRIME PLUS/Red Hot Mamas urge you to educate yourself, stay informed, and plan ahead. Going through the menopause experience could be one of the most rewarding and enriching times of your life!
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Despite the vast amount of information and healthcare that exists to care for the menopausal woman, the majority of women are still not satisfied with the level of support offered in today’s society. As a result, more and more women are attending education and support groups or forming self-help groups to help navigate the changes that menopause. Families and friends can provide important support, too.
Men also experience mid-life changes that may include decreased ability to perform sexually, depression, and the loss of muscle mass, sexual desire, and sense of well-being. But the hormonal changes of “andropause” are more gradual. Regardless, women and men need to educate their partners about the changes they experience. At midlife, couples can build mutual support by keeping one another informed and counseling can also be very valuable.
Post-Menopause
After menopause, many women discover a sense of liberation. They are eager to say good-bye to premenstrual symptoms, cysts, fibroids, childrearing responsibilities, worries about unintended pregnancy, and the stereotypes associated with youth. On the other hand, many also face increased responsibilities, declining health and reduced financial status. Instead of being freed of many responsibilities, they inherit the care of aging parents or other family members.
But overall, postmenopausal women have a greater sense of well-being than at any other point in their lives. Postmenopausal women often become leaders in their families and communities. Menopause can be a new beginning, a gateway to personal growth.
Stephanie Marston, Professional Speaker, Author and Life-Quality Expert in Santa Fe, NM. For more information, please visit www.stephaniemarston.com.
