How Do I Know If I am in Menopause?
by Dr. Tracie O'Keefe DCH, BHSc, ND
http://www.healtheducationcentre.com/
Well, let me dispel a myth to begin with because often people tell that menopause begins at a particular time but it doesn't really. It may begin in your 30's or 40's or in some women, in their late 20's; and it is a decline of hormones -- the raised luteinizing hormones. The body is not as fertile as it used to be. Sometimes, blood indicators can show that decline in fertility, but sometimes, someone may enter into menopause or peri-menopause (pre-menopause) while the blood profile is considered normal.
You know when you are beginning menopause because sometimes you begin to have hot sweats and you can't control your temperature. You may miss the odd period or you may feel out of sorts, you may anger quickly, or be confused; or sometimes, you want a massive change of life. For some women, going into menopause is pretty non-eventful but for other women, it can be hugely eventful.
One of the things I say to people is to keep a menstrual diary. This is really very important. You write down every time you menstruate, and you write throughout the month how your mood is and on what day, and if you have any physical symptoms like hot sweats or dizziness. So, it is a matter of self-monitoring. We, as healthcare professionals, can have an overview but you are the ones who know your own body. Listen to your body.
Visit us now at http://www.healtheducationcentre.com/
