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Menopause is the cessation of a women's menstrual cycle. Menopause occurs between the ages of forty five and fifty five years, however some women may go through menopause sooner or later than normal. Menopause may be a very difficult transition, both mentally and emotionally, for a woman to make. Unlike males who are continuously manufacturing sperm inside their testes, women are born with all their eggs already formed in their ovaries. One or two eggs will be matured and released every menstrual cycle starting from menarche (the first period) and continuing until there are no more eggs left in the ovaries. At this point ovulation (the release of eggs) ceases and oestrogen production stops.

Although it is a natural process that happens to all women, the associated symptoms may be unpleasant and distressing. The changes in hormone levels during menopause have varying effects on your body. Your circulation system is most commonly affected and this results in heart palpitations and hot flushes. Increased perspiration and insomnia are also common occurrences during menopause.

The drop in oestrogen levels causes a decrease in bone density and it is therefore often recommended that women going through or who have gone through menopause should take correct calcium supplementation.

Vaginal dryness, itching and vaginal discharge may be very upsetting and uncomfortable symptoms for a woman and intercourse commonly causes pain and discomfort. A decrease in sexual desire may result from a change in the sex hormone levels and/or as a result of the discomfort experienced during intercourse. Substances that may irritate the vaginal lining, such as strong soaps and scented creams, should be avoided and vaginal lubricants can be used to reduce sexual discomfort caused by vaginal dryness.

Changes in the urinary system during menopause may include a loss in bladder tone and muscular strength. This may cause an inability to go long periods without urinating, and possibly even urinary incontinence. Breast tissue usually shrinks after menopause.

The mental and emotional effects of menopause are more complex and therefore harder to manage. They include moodiness, tearfulness, irritability, tiredness and poor memory and concentration. Anxiety and depression are common during menopause. Our recommended treatment should be taken in conjunction with and not in place of any treatment recommended by your healthcare practitioner.