Menopause is commonly occurs between the ages of 45-55, but 1 in 100 can experience it before the age of 40. Between these ages a women can start the natural change in the level of sex hormones (commonly associated with oestrogen and progesterone production decline) that are circulating in a females blood stream which in turn can result in the onset of some unwanted/menopausal symptoms. It is thought that menopausing can last up to 10 years, however most women can make the transition within 2-4 years
There are some issues that can result in a problematic perimenopause and menopause. It is also known that some cancers and cardiovascular issues are strongly associated to the perimenopausal and menopausal women.
Some symptoms are more common than others. The chart below shows the most common symptoms, however there is an increasing scope of issues that are now being associated with the menopause due to the wide-ranging effects oestrogen and progesterone can have on the body.
Image taken from North East News; Ed Baker: 17/10/22
It is important to know that NOT every women has to have a negative experience through menopause and there are some things that we can put in place to encourage a smoother and more natural passage to a post-menopausal state. Herbal medicine and lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) can promote a healthier and cleaner body environment, and as such hormonal, fluctuations have a less pronounced effect.
For more advice about herbal medicine, changes in diet and exercise programmes speak to Catherine.
Catherine Wasik BSc Hons Ost; BSc Hons MNIMH
Medical herbalist and Registered Osteopath
Women health specialist