Menopausal symptoms affect about 70% of women approaching the menopause. Typical menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes or night sweats, are caused by changing hormonal levels in the female reproductive system. Almost all women notice early symptoms while still having periods. This stage of gradually-falling and fluctuating hormone levels is called perimenopause, which often begins in the early 40s.
The symptoms of menopause usually last for the whole menopause transition (until the mid 50s), but some women may experience them for the rest of their lives. The most common symptoms are : - hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, loss of libido, and vaginal dryness. However, there are a variety of treatments that can be considered to deal with these symptoms.
There are many tried and tested therapies, and dietary supplements and foods, that can help the symptoms of the menopause. I have gathered together a few : -
Soya – soya can have a balancing effect on oestrogen. One trial showed that Soya increased oestrogen levels when they were low and reduced them when they were high. Soya produce can be difficult to find in Turkey - I know this first hand as I am a veggie, and lactose intolerent. Soya milk can be found in any supermarket although its a little over priced (ranging from 5.59 ytl-6.69 ytl per litre). Soya milk is an easy way to get the nutrients needed - simply use it instead of regular milk adding it to tea, coffee and anything you would ordinarily use milk for. Linseed oil can also be used and can be bought as a capsule. (see website address below)
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, sugar, and alcohol - these cause extreme changes in blood sugar levels which stimulate the release of adrenalin. This exhausts the adrenal glands which are responsible for producing a reserve supply of oestrogen at the menopause, when the ovaries begin to produce less. By changing your normal cup of tea or coffee - for some hot water and a slice of lemon - does wonders for your health and hydrates your body. It is also a great way to cleanse your liver. Having a cup first thing in the morning is also very refreshing.
Aromatherapy Massage - massage is helpful for relaxation and reducing the stress associated with menopausal symptoms. Using aromatherapy oils will make this even more effective. Here are some oils and their therapeutic effects :
o Basil alleviates fatigue
o Chamomile and lavender, in combination, improves relaxation and calm nerves
o Cypress, geranium, or rose eases heavy periods
o Juniper, lavender, or rosemary eases muscle and joint pain
o Lavender or peppermint eases headaches
o Lemongrass or ylang-ylang eases PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome)
o Neroli or lavender alleviates insomnia
o Sage eases tension and depression, and balances hormones
o Thyme alleviates insomnia and improves circulation
Black cohosh - this is a herb used by the Native North Americans. It is very effective in restoring female hormonal balance and helps to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and vaginal dryness. My mother swears by this remedy but please take caution as you cannot use this herb if you are taking the Pill, fertillity drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment. This can be ordered online and is very reasonably priced. (See website address below).
Recommended website: http://www.yourhealthfoodstore.co.uk
For more information about complimentary therapy and where you can find it please email ejvickers@hotmail com or you can come and visit me at Le Figaro salon where I will be available every Friday.
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Menopause
