Ew, Menopause.
I’m looking down the barrel of “the change” and I have to say, I’m not excited about the ratio of answers specific to me to questions on how to make this inevitability a little easier.
The thing is, the era of ‘reproductive age’ ends the same way: different for each woman.
It even hits differently depending on race—
According to the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, Black women have the highest prevalence, longest duration, and most intense hot flashes and night sweats, whereas Asian women have the lowest prevalence. Black women tended to have hot flashes on average for 10 years as compared to White women average of 6.5 years.
It’s not fair, but it is manageable.
FOX 17 Women’s Health Expert, Dr. Diana Bitner tells us there are similar starting points we can all use to make the process a little easier for ourselves.
Health
Get your weight, blood pressure, mental health, and any chronic conditions in order right now. Poor health makes menopause symptoms more intense.
—Early or intense hot flashes and night sweats often indicate an increased risk of heart disease or stroke—
The better your health is, the better your transition will be.
Educate yourself, empower others
Access to accurate information correlates with better health results. With studies, medical information, and more at the tip of your fingers, we have fewer and fewer excuses when it comes to getting and sharing information.
Talk to your doctor
If you don’t have one, get one. A gynecologist or a general practitioner is key to separating fact from fiction. Put your mind at ease or get pro-active on any issues that will truly impact your health going forward. There are dozens of treatments that will make your cycle more comfortable at any stage in life.
FOX 17 Women’s Health Tip of the Week
Take control. As our hot flashes burn this bridge, remember we deserve a comfortable transition through menopause.
