Tackling the Menopause – Naturally

Are you dreading the menopause? Are you already experiencing problems because you are perimenopausal? You are not alone: all women experience the menopause – it’s a natural change in the female reproductive system and normally takes place between the ages of 45 or 55.

The word ‘menopause’ specifically means the end of periods but it is the falling level of the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone in the body, as the ovaries stop working, that results in the physical and emotional problems we associate with this phase of women’s lives.
You may be lucky: some women experience few or no problems. But others suffer a great deal for several years. On top of the physical symptoms, the menopause often coincides with the emotional upheaval of children growing up and leaving home, causing women to feel a loss of identity and focus.

Hot flushes and night sweats are two well-known and common physical symptoms of this temporary hormonal imbalance. Periods may become irregular, heavier or lighter before they stop entirely.
Other side-effects are general tiredness and depression, irritability, broken sleep, memory lapses and a lack of interest in sex.  Vaginal dryness can make sex very uncomfortable and you may be more susceptible to vaginal and urinary infections.