Menopause

Menopause is a broad term to which the whole range of physical and emotional changes that occur around the time a woman's monthly periods cease, is attributed.

Fertility comes to an end. Usually this change of life happens between the age of 45-50 years, and brings in certain peculiar features.

Causes

• The ovaries stop producing eggs and there is a marked change in hormone levels especially a reduced level of oestrogen.

Signs & Symptoms

In many women, the menopausal change occurs without any unpleasant symptoms, the only change being the cessation of menstrual flow.

However in some others, many disturbing changes take place like:

• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Increased facial hair
• Dryness of the skin all over the body

Later on, bones can become more brittle. This is called osteoporosis, a condition prone for easy fractures, and the arteries become narrower.

Herbal Medicines

1. Milk is a rich source of calcium and vitamin 'D'. Since these get depleted around menopause a good quantity of milk should be given duly in divided doses.

Ayurvedic Remedies

1. Liquorice popularly known as yasti madhu or meethi lakdi is a natural source of female hormone - oestrogen, and is given in doses of 1 teaspoonful twice a day with warm milk.
2. Aswgandha botanically known as withania somnifera can also be given to calm down irritant behaviour of menopausal women. 5 grams of this powder, well mixed in milk can be given twice a day. It effectively checks the emotional problems associated with menopause.

Do's & Don'ts

1. Exercises such as jogging, walking, swimming, and cycling are beneficial.
2. One should not indulge in excessive worry and thinking.
3. Women should not worry too much about getting old or losing beauty as these are natural changes.
4. Sound sleep and relaxation are vital to handle this condition.