Beginning Your Menopause Journey: ForeverBetty's Guide to Accepting Change
Knowing When Menopause Occurs
The menstrual cycle of a woman ends with the menopause, a normal biological process. The average age at which it occurs is 51, and it typically happens in your late 40s or early 50s. A few years prior to your last menstrual cycle, the perimenopause, or transition to menopause, might start. Your body will adjust to the changing hormone levels throughout this time, causing you to go through a variety of physical and emotional changes.
Knowing the Early Warning Signs
Perimenopause, which can last anywhere from a few months to several years, is the first stage of the menopausal transition. Here are a few early indicators that you might be moving into this stage:
• Irregular Periods: Variations in your menstrual cycles' duration, frequency, or flow.
• Hot flashes: Abrupt sensations of warmth, frequently accompanied by facial and neck redness and sweating.
• Sleep Disturbances: Usually brought on by night sweats, difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Mood Swings: Elevated anxiety, irritation, or emotional swings.
• Vaginal Dryness: The tissues in the vagina are less supple and wet, which might hurt when having sex.
• Reduced Libido: A reduction in arousal or desire for sexual activity.
Getting Around in the Early Menopause
Although entering the menopause might be difficult, there are numerous strategies to control symptoms and keep a good mindset. The following advice will assist you in navigating this changes:
1. Learn for Yourself
Power comes from knowledge. Being aware of what is going on in your body might help you feel less anxious and get ready for the changes that are coming. We provide a plethora of tools and knowledge at ForeverBetty to help you navigate each phase of the menopause.
2. Continue Living a Healthful Lifestyle
Menopausal symptoms can be significantly reduced with a balanced diet and frequent exercise. Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, among other nutrient-dense foods. Include physical activities to help you stay in a healthy weight range, sleep better at night, and improve your mood, such as swimming, yoga, or walking.
3. Maintain Hydration
Dry skin and bloating are two symptoms that can be relieved by drinking lots of water. To stay hydrated and alert, try to consume eight glasses of water or more every day.
4. Put mindfulness into practice.
Deep breathing exercises, journaling, and other mindfulness techniques can lower stress and improve mental health. Make time every day to unwind and get in touch with yourself.
5. Look for Assistance
This is not a journey you have to undertake alone. Talk to your loved ones about your experiences, or get involved in a support group to meet other women who are going through similar things. Our community at ForeverBetty is here to help you along the journey.
6. Speak with your healthcare provider
It's crucial to visit your healthcare provider on a regular basis. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and possible treatments, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), if needed. Your physician can offer you tailored guidance on how to effectively manage your symptoms.