In this article we will address the most frequently asked questions about menopause that Dr.Morice hears from his patients.
1) Without medication, what can I do to ease my menopause symptoms?
The best things you can do to ease the symptoms of menopause are to create a healthier lifestyle for yourself.
1) Take good care of your body: Taking care of your body helps boost your immunity and helps protect again sicknesses and postmenopausal symptoms.
2) Eat well: Eat a fiber-rich diet that is low in fat. Ensure you are getting enough calcium and iron every day.
3) Supplement: If your diet isn’t supplying enough of the essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium, take a daily multivitamin to ensure adequate nutrition.
4) Exercise: Start a regular exercise routine. Try walking, yoga, or Pilates.
5) Stress less: Remove the stressful aspects of your life to help strengthen your body. Yoga helps with this, as well.
2) Can I get pregnant duringperimenopause?
Yes! It is known to occur, although it’s not common. You can’t rule out the possibility of getting pregnant until your doctor has officially declared you as menopausal.
3) Will menopause affect my sex drive?
It is possible that menopause can affect your libido. There are many factors that can influence your sex drive, such as stress, your relationship with your partner, and your physical health. However, symptoms of menopause include vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, lower testosterone levels, and hot flashes. Individually or together, these can contribute to a decreased sex drive.
4) Will I put on weight duringperimenopause?
It is common for women to put on weight in menopause. While sometimes physiological, it’s often caused by overeating and a lack of exercise due to depression. If a woman eats well and exercises regularly during perimenopause, there’s no reason she should put on weight.
5) I am taking hormone-replacement therapy (HRT), but am still tired and stressed. Why?
It is common to still have symptoms even when on HRT. Each HRT is different. Many women find that a progestin-only pill helps them more than a combined pill. Consider adding other treatments, such as lifestyle changes to help reduce your stress.
6) Can I surgically induce menopause?
Yes, having a hysterectomy that removes your ovaries will induce menopause.
7) Is menopause related to neurological disorders?
No. Neither menopause nor perimenopause have an association with neurological disorders. Menopause is a stressful time, however, so psychiatric disorders such as depression and mood swings occur frequently. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms are negatively affecting your quality of life.
In our next article, we will discuss life after menopause.
In this 5-part series, we cover all stages of menopause and discuss symptoms, treatment, and what to expect.
