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MCC Daily Tribune

World Menopause Month

During World Menopause Month, let’s talk about it openly. It’s a normal, natural part of the aging process, yet many women are still worried about going through menopause. Sure, there are some less desirable symptoms that accompany changing hormones — like hot flashes — but there are also things to celebrate, such as no more periods, PMS, or worrying about unwanted pregnancies. Add to that the increased self-confidence, self-awareness, and greater freedom that menopause often brings, and October can become a time of amazing personal growth and excitement. Embrace it, don’t try to erase it!

HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD MENOPAUSE MONTH

  1. Pause to reflect on the liberating aspects of menopause

    Use the newfound independence an empty nest brings to pursue the passions and projects you’ve put aside until now. Put the focus back on yourself and what makes you happiest.

  2. Share information openly

    Starting a frank discussion about menopause helps clarify and demystify it. Use your experience to help others be better informed and approach the process with less anxiety.

  3. Add exercise to your daily regimen

    Studies show exercise does wonders for reducing any bothersome menopausal symptoms. For instance, yoga can help manage hot flashes. Downward dog away!

5 FACTS ABOUT WORLD MENOPAUSE MONTH

  1. ​Only whales, gorillas, and humans go through it

    ​Other animals continue reproducing throughout their lifespan.

  2. ​One in three women has problems associated with menopause

    ​Of those, only one in 12 suffer from depression.

  3. ​Asian women have fewer hot flashes

    ​The theory is that larger amounts of soy in their diet account for the difference.

  4. ​No one knows why menopause happens, but there’s an interesting theory

    ​The "grandmother" hypothesis assumes females stop having children so they can help existing ones to ensure the gene pool continues.

  5. ​Your brain might be the cause of hot flashes, not hormone fluctuations

    ​This theory postulates that the reason for hot flashes rests in the hypothalamus gland, which regulates body temperature.

WHY WORLD MENOPAUSE MONTH IS IMPORTANT

  1. It can impact your health

    Hormonal changes after menopause may bring changes in sleep, heart health, and bone density. Consult with your doctor to ensure your body is functioning at optimal levels and take steps to mediate any issues.

  2. It reinforces the natural, normal process involved

    Back in Victorian times, menopause was seen as a disease to be treated with all sorts of misguided “remedies” like belladonna, injectable lead, and pulverized cow ovaries. Dedicating a month to talking about the realities of menopause — and how NOT terrible it is — can help change the negative attitudes many people still hold.

  3. Suffering in silence is out

    If you are among the one in three women who experiences issues in menopause, know there are many options for managing your symptoms. Consult your doctor, try an herbal remedy, go for a walk or run. Keep at it until you find what works for you.

Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
10/13/2022