Living with the menopause

What is menopause?

Menopause is when a woman's body stops having periods. It means she can't have babies anymore. This usually happens when a woman is around 50 years old.

Helpful tools or techniques:

• Talk to a doctor who can explain more.
• Use apps or books to learn about changes in the body.

When does menopause usually begin?

Menopause is when a woman stops having periods. It usually starts when a woman is around 45 to 55 years old. But it can be different for everyone. Some women might start earlier, and some might start later.

If you want more help understanding menopause, you can:

• Ask a doctor.
• Read a book about it.
• Talk to someone who knows about menopause.

What happens during menopause?

Do all women have the same menopause?

How long do menopause signs last?

Menopause is when women stop having periods. It is a normal part of aging.

Signs of menopause can be:

• Hot flashes (feeling hot suddenly)
• Night sweats (sweating at night)
• Feeling sad or moody
• Trouble sleeping

These signs can start a few years before periods stop. They can last for a few years after.

If you need help:

• Talk to a doctor for advice.
• Use a fan to help stay cool.
• Try relaxing exercises like yoga.
• Use simple books or audio books to learn more.

How can we know if someone is going through menopause?

Doctors can sometimes use tests to help find out.

What can help with menopause symptoms?

Menopause can make you feel hot, tired, or moody. Here are some ways to help:

• See a doctor: They can give medicine to help.
• Eat healthy food: Try fruits, veggies, and water.
• Move your body: Walking or dancing can make you feel better.
• Relax: Take deep breaths or listen to music.

Ask family or friends for support. They can help you feel better too.

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is a medicine that helps your body when it does not make enough hormones. Hormones are important because they help our bodies work properly.

Sometimes, people need HRT when they get older or if their bodies do not make enough hormones on their own.

Doctors can give you HRT in different ways, like pills, patches, or creams.

If you want to know more or have questions, it's good to talk to a doctor. They can help you understand if HRT is right for you.

Some tools that might help you learn more are talking books, videos, or asking someone to read with you.

Is HRT safe?

HRT stands for Hormone Replacement Therapy.

Some people take it to feel better.

But is it safe to use?

Talk to your doctor to know more.

You can ask questions if you are worried.

Use pictures, videos, or help from friends to understand better.

Can food and exercise help with menopause?

Menopause is a time when a woman's body changes. Some women feel hot or tired. Eating healthy food and doing exercise can help.

Eating Healthy:

• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
• Choose whole grains like brown rice or whole wheat bread.
• Avoid too much sugar and fat.

Exercising:

• Try to walk or do light exercise every day.
• Yoga or stretching can help you feel calm.

It is good to talk with a doctor or nurse for advice. They can help you with more ideas.

Can you have a baby when you are in menopause?

Menopause is when a woman's period stops. It means she can't have babies anymore.

If you are in menopause, it is not likely you can get pregnant.

If you have questions, talk to a doctor.

A calendar might help you track your periods.

Do all women get hot flashes?

Not all women get hot flashes. It is different for everyone.

If you want help, try these tips:

• Wear light clothes.
• Stay cool with a fan.
• Drink cold water.
• Talk to a doctor if you have questions.

How does menopause affect bones?

When women get older, their bodies change. This is called menopause. It can make bones weaker.

Strong bones are important for our bodies. They help us move and stay healthy.

During menopause, women make less of a hormone called estrogen. Estrogen helps keep bones strong. Without enough estrogen, bones can get weak and break easily.

There are ways to keep bones strong:

• Eat foods with calcium, like milk and cheese.
• Do exercises that make bones strong, like walking or dancing.
• Talk to a doctor about medicine that can help.

It's important to take care of bones, especially as women get older.

How can you feel better during menopause?

Menopause is a time when women's bodies change. Some women feel hot, have trouble sleeping, or feel moody. Here are some simple things you can do to feel better:

• Eat Healthy: Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Try to eat less sugar and fat.
• Stay Active: Do exercise like walking, yoga, or swimming. It helps your mood and keeps your bones strong.
• Sleep Well: Try going to bed at the same time each night. Make your bedroom cool and dark.
• Talk and Share: Share your feelings with friends or family. It can help you feel better.
• Use a Diary: Write down your symptoms each day. This can help you see what makes you feel better or worse.

If you need more help, talk to a doctor or nurse. They can give you more ideas.

Do I need to see a doctor about menopause signs?

Are you having signs of menopause, like hot flashes or feeling sad? These can be normal, but it's good to talk with a doctor. A doctor can help you feel better and stay healthy.

Here are some tips to help you:

• Ask someone you trust to help you talk to a doctor.
• Write down how you feel each day so you can tell the doctor.
• Use a calendar to track your symptoms.
• Bring a list of questions to your doctor visit.

Talking to a doctor can help you get the right care and feel better.