“A change is gonna come.” – Sam Cooke, 1964
While I am quite certain that Mr. Cooke was not referring to menopause in his famous lyrics, the truth of the words prevails!
It occurred to me recently that in this time I have been sharing my health and wellness tips with you, dear readers, that I have never approached this topic specifically. A reader emailed me to suggest it, so here goes. Having said that, I do realize that there is a wealth of information out there, from medical professionals to women’s interest magazines and periodicals, to obviously the internet. It can make one’s head spin, not a good look unless you are, oh say, possibly portraying a demon in a popular movie.
Before I launch into some of the statistics around this amazing adventure known as menopause, I will share some personal experience and observations. I recall when my OB/GYN first brought the subject up I declared to him that it was impossible since I was having no symptoms. “Oh no,” said I, “that is not happening yet.”
Although I indeed was not having symptoms my routine bloodwork implied differently! Within a short time, however, truth won out. I will share only that I recall a very cold, brisk day in January when I was driving with my car heater turned off and my head out the window seeking relief. Not a very attractive or safe way to drive!
On average, most women (don’t you just love that phrase?) experience menopause about the age of 52 years. Over 1.3 million women welcome this phenomenon each year.1 (The age reflected here does not account for women who experience the removal of their ovaries at a younger age which may require medical intervention.)
While the experience can be vastly different for each woman, there are common factors which can lead to anything from a distracting discomfort to debilitation. Some of the more common symptoms are hot flashes, sleep disturbance, and mood swings. Other often serious side effects may include cardiovascular issues, osteoporosis, diabetes and other gastronomical challenges. Often a change in hair thickness and vibrancy and drier skin accompany this “change of life.”
Yes, though there are emotional and physical changes that most women will eventually face and unlike our mothers and grandmothers the dialogue is open, important, and integral in giving us more options to cope with these changes. I will not address those options specifically here but I will encourage you to do your own research, talk at length with your health provider, and be wary of herbal remedies as they can sometimes have side effects, as can pharmaceuticals. Practice yoga, deep breathing, and meditation which can help alleviate symptoms.
Change IS “gonna come” as our soul singer Sam Cooke is sharing with us. Remember that change is part of LIFE, and when you are experiencing change you are indeed LIVING. Embrace life, take care of your health and well-being, and be patient with yourself going forward. And gentlemen, take note …
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.