Menopausal and perimenopausal problems

Menopause is a natural progression of life and it describes the stage at which a female ceases menstruation and ovulation. Perimenopause is the period when a female’s body is preparing for the onset of menopause. This may include a reduction in the production of sex hormones, which can cause specific symptoms (see below). By the time a female is in menopause, most of the acute symptoms of perimenopause have finished and there is a new ‘balance’ between the sex hormones. However in the long term, the onset of menopause makes women more likely to experience cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and vaginal atrophy.

Symptoms of perimenopause: anxiety, dry skin, bloating, fatigue, headaches, palpitations, hot flashes, irritability, decreased interest in sex, loss of concentration, mood swings, night sweats, urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness and itching, weight gain, cold hands and feet and changes to the hair and skin.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP, gynaecologist, herbalist, homoeopath, naturopath, psychologist.