Dealing with Menopause
What is Menopause?
Menopause means the end of cyclical menstrual bleeding and this occurs on average of 50 years of age. It is the time in a woman's life that the function of ovaries ceases and can no longer become pregnant.
Menopause can result from a natural decline of reproduction hormones. Generally, upon reaching late 30s, the ovaries start making less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate menstruation. Menstrual period becomes irregular in the late 40s and on average by age 50, the ovaries stop producing eggs and period stop.
Symptoms of Menopause
Common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Mood changes
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Vaginal dryness and itching
Managing Menopause
To manage the symptoms of menopause, essential oils may help to relieve some of the symptoms:
Hot flashes
Generally last between 30 seconds to 10 minutes, hot flashes are sudden feeling of heat ranging from mild to very strong, in the upper portion of the body or all over where you may feel sweaty or flushed. Add drops of clary sage in the diffuser for antidepressant-like effects. Women experiencing menopause have an increased risk of osteoporosis due to the decline in estrogen, and clary sage help slow down the development of osteoporosis.
Cramps
Some women may continue to experience cramps once near or when menstruation ceased, and peppermint can help to relieve the discomfort.
Mood changes
The changing hormones of menopause can cause feelings of anxiety and sleeping problems. Known to promote feeling of relaxation and a mood lifter, Lavender (more info | product) can help to improve sleep and relaxation. Geranium (more info | product) and Chamomile (more info | product) also has antidepressant properties that benefit women struggling with mood swing and depression during menopause.
Diet Considerations for Menopause
To balance hormones and reduce menopause symptoms, the diet should include plenty of essential minerals and healthy fats. Reduce intake of packaged food, carbonated drinks and alcohol that aggravate hot flashes and contribute to weight gain.
Have at least 8 glasses of water daily to replace fluid lost from hot flashes.
Engage in activities to relieve stress, such as exercise, meditate, aromatherapy. Managing stress during menopause are important to reduce behaviours and symptoms like anxiety, depression, emotional eating and weight gain, fatigue and poor sleep.