Menopause is a stage in a woman’s life when the monthly menstrual flows stop. Most women enter menopause between the ages of 45 to 54 years.

What causes menopause?

It is a natural part of aging, occurs because of reduction in female hormone levels especially estrogen. It can also occur when a woman’s ovaries (the organ that releases egg and produce hormones) are removed.

What are the symptoms?

1. There may be hot flushes described by some as internal heat
2. Changes in menstruation and eventual cessation of menstrual flow
3. Mood changes like anxiety, depression
4. Headaches
5. Excessive sweating
6. Sleep difficulty
7. There may be vaginal dryness and reduced interest in sex
8. There may be pain during sex
9. There may be bone pain.

What you can do

1. Avoid tight clothing and heat
2. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine intake
3. Use fans, sleep in a cool room
4. Exercise often
5. Practice deep slow breathing
6. Consume foods rich in calcium e.g. milk, dairy products
7. Take calcium and vitamin supplements
8. Try vaginal lubricant during intercourse
9. Visit your doctor especially if
   1. Symptoms are unbearable
   2. You have vaginal bleeding 1 year after your last menstruation
   3. If you have chronic vaginal discharge
   4. If you experience mood swings
10. Your doctor may advice medications or patches to replace the female hormones