Menopause can be a challenging time for many women, but it's important to remember that it is not a medical illness - it's a natural biological process.
A woman is said to have gone through menopause when she has had no menstrual period for twelve months. For most women, this occurs between ages 45 and 55.
However, menopausal symptoms don't tend to wait for the one year anniversary of your last period, and instead they prefer to show up a little earlier (e.g. two to six years before). This time is termed perimenopause.
Menopause involves changes in your hormone levels (e.g. declining oestrogen production by the ovaries) and in your menstrual cycle (e.g. irregular periods, changes in the length and/or heaviness of your period).
With fluctuations in hormones, an array of physical and emotional symptoms can occur, including:
Phyto-oestrogens
Phyto-oestrogens such as isoflavones and lignans are compounds found in certain foods (e.g. soy and linseed) that share similarities with oestrogen and may exert a weak oestrogenic effect. Some data supports their efficacy in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flushes.
Hypericum
If your menopausal challenge is an emotional one, you may benefit from hypericum. This herb is often combined with black cohosh for treatment of menopausal symptoms (hot flushes, irritability, mood swings and insomnia), and it may also support sexual wellbeing.
If you are taking a pharmaceutical medication, check with your health care professional before using hypericum.
Sage
Sage has traditionally been used to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats. This herb may be helpful in menopause as it contains oestrogen-like compounds.
Yoga
Preliminary studies show that yoga, with its combination of breathing, physical poses and meditation, may be an effective way to reduce the frequency of hot flushes. Yoga is also great for improving flexibility and managing stress.
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