Seven myths you should know about menopause

 

Most women know a lot about menopause, learned mostly from their mothers or the ladies that you work with. However there are several myths about menopause that you need to know about – not only so you aren’t confused about what to expect, but so you can pass this valuable information on to others (the ladies in the office!).

 


Myth #1 – Menopause isn’t a disease so I shouldn’t need to see a doctor for it.

 

Truth: Although most symptoms of menopause are more annoying than truly painful, there are several symptoms that can easily mimic those of real diseases. Some of these symptoms can be associated with Epstein-Barr virus, anemia, thyroid disorders, and even the big “C”. Do you really want to take that chance?

Be safe, see your doctor if you aren't sure.

 


Myth #2 – Your sex life is gone once menopause begins, you may as well face it.

 

Truth: Many women don’t experience the drop in libido after perimenopause starts, in fact some women have just the opposite experience! If you find you are having difficulty getting in the mood, try getting some lubrication first. It can make the difference if you have dry skin. Also there are some terrific estrogen creams that can be used to help as well, and don’t forget it may take a little longer to get you ready, but isn’t that what it’s all about?

 

Myth #3 – Hormone replacement therapy is the only way to treat menopause.

 

Truth: Many women find that they can keep the worst symptoms at bay using natural remedies, such as: black cohosh, licorice root, red clover, dong quai, ginseng, primrose oil, and of course the addition of soy to the diet on aregular basis. Just a subtle change to a healthier diet and a new habit of exercise can make a huge difference in how you feel. The real benefits are that natural menopause remedies are safer!

 

Myth #4 – Women don’t have to worry about heart attacks like men do.

 

Truth: Please don’t believe this myth – it could really cost you your life! As female hormones decrease, especially estrogen, a women’s risk of heart attack and stroke start to rise. This is because the hormones have a protective function in nature, which is lost as the estrogen starts to lessen. Doctors have been starting to make women aware of this but many still don’t get the message.

 


Myth #5 – A simple blood test can let you know whether you are starting menopause or not.

 

Truth: Although there is a test to find out if the hormone FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) is decreasing in the body, and this can be an indication of perimenopause. However, even as this is the main hormone responsible for the beginning of a woman’s period, the catch is that this doesn’t necessarily indicate the fluctuation of hormones that mean menopause is truly here. In other words it’s not a yes or no test, just an indication.

 

Myth #6 – I’m only 36 years old, way too young to be starting symptoms of menopause.

 

Truth: Although it’s true most women start having these symptoms between the ages of 45 and 55, it’s not unheard of to start having them much earlier. General health, diet, and even genetics play a role in how soon a woman starts perimenopause, so don't assume you are too young.

 

Myth #7 – Irregular bleeding almost always means cancer.

 

Truth: As a woman reaches menopause, the hormones will fluctuate wildly to the point where a regular period may not happen for months. One month her period may be very heavy, and the next month almost nothing. This is normal, and should not be a cause for alarm by itself. Of course if your period is heavy for a much longer time period, see your doctor to make sure it’s not something else.

 

There are many more myths about menopause - so don't be fooled!


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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