Perimenopause ? A New Beginning

Perimenopause, the transitional period before menopause, can bring with it many symptoms, challenges and changes for women. You may notice that you?ve gained some weight, particularly around your mid section, or perhaps your periods aren?t as regular as they once were. You may also be experiencing hot flashes or night sweats and you?re wondering if this time in your life marks the end of your youth.

According to several studies, the answer is ?absolutely not.? As a matter of fact, perimenopause can very well signal the beginning of a more mature, happy, beautiful and energetic you ? if you have the determination and self-control that are necessary ingredients in the fountain of youth.

You may believe that the days of feeling youthful and full of energy are history, but this couldn?t be farther from the truth. Maybe you witnessed your mother ? or perhaps aunts ? get older and the results weren?t pretty. Believe it or not, that has very little to do with you. As a matter of fact, a study conducted by Swedish scientists found that our genes only contribute 20% - 30% in determining how healthy we?ll be and how long we?ll live. That?s very good news, because this means that it is we who determine our fate.

Three key factors to staying youthful and reducing symptoms of perimenopause are: Diet, exercise and a healthy, positive attitude. Unfortunately, most women don?t believe in healthy eating and exercise. As a matter of fact, far too many people become complacent and are more than happy to sit around watching television or writing e-mails, yet the excuse is always the same ? ?I don?t have time to exercise and eat healthy.? If you were to face unfavorable health conditions and severe symptoms of periomenopause (likely as result of an inactive lifestyle) there?s no doubt you would find the time to seek and receive treatment. Why not use that time for preventative maintenance on your body so that you may reduce the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke and many other conditions that so many women face as they enter middle age?

Let?s take a moment to examine the lifestyle of many Americans who are now living past the age of 100. Those individuals currently living past the age of 100 never inactively sat behind a desk, ate fatty processed foods, experienced road rage, or believed that exercising no more than their fingers at the computer was a sufficient amount of activity for the day. Let?s face it, in the early 1900s people walked miles to work not by choice but out of necessity, because cars were still a luxury back then. Boys and girls were expected to till the fields because their farmer parents needed cheap help. People ate what they grew because it was available. Most labor was manual then, and most nutrients were natural. Preserved food was what they sealed in a jar. Tobacco and alcohol were available in the early 1900s, but the majority of today's centenarians didn't indulge to excess.

The lifestyle changes necessary to look and feel youthful and energetic, and reduce symptoms or perimenopause, are so very easy and you?ll be thrilled that you took the time to make these changes, because the results will astound you. Your diet doesn?t need to be so strict that you can?t enjoy those foods that you love. As a matter of fact, recent studies have shown that the consumption of cocoa or dark chocolate may offer protective effects for healthy people and those who are at risk for cardiovascular disease. So, go ahead and enjoy your chocolate ? if consumed in moderation, and as part of a well balanced diet, it may be very good for your overall health.

Additionally, red wine has been proven to increase longevity, serve as an antioxidant and may reduce the risk or spread of breast cancer. Also, as you may know, a strong association between moderate consumption of red wine and reduced cardiovascular disease and lower cancer risk has been documented.

So, as you can see, many foods and beverages that you thought you?d have to give up can easily remain a part of your everyday diet. Foods you will want to avoid, however, include those that will contribute to fat accumulation, such as white rice, potatoes and white bread. Instead, add wholegrain bread, oats, rye and wheat germ to your diet.

I know you?re probably not fond of the word ?exercise,? as many women don?t understand the benefits of a regular exercise routine ? both physical and emotional ? but you will be shocked and amazed by the positive results you?ll see by devoting a small amount of time to regular physical activity. You?ll lose the weight you?ve gained around your mid section, and you?ll become toned, fit and thin. You?ll also have much more energy, which is likely a result of being in better shape, as well as knowing that you?ve accomplished a great deal, which leads to so much more self confidence than most of us are accustomed to having.

In summary, perimenopause really can be the start of a beautiful new beginning if you should choose to make it so. Remember, it?s up to you; do you want to become frumpy, overweight and lacking energy, or will you devote a small amount time and effort to looking and feeling youthful, energized and beautiful? I know I?m experiencing some of the best years of my life and if I can do it, so can you ? enjoy!

Susan Megge is the founder of http://www.40isbeautiful.com, a website designed to assist mature women as they approach and experience menopause. Susan started experiencing symptoms of menopause several years ago and researched various avenues to deal with these symptoms naturally.

Natural Remedies For Menopause - Black Cohosh

For many women, the side effects of HRT have made it a less desirable option to manage the symptoms of menopause. However, the discomfort of these symptoms mean some treatment is necessary.

Hot flashes, night sweats, panic attacks, headaches, and mood swings can make life difficult for a menopausal woman, as well as affecting her relationships with her family. When we feel ill, our whole outlook on life can be affected, making it more challenging to engage the levels of spiritual transformation that are associated with menopause.

Fortunately, there are a number of options available to women who'd prefer to experience menopause naturally. It's important to note though, that medication may still be needed for some. Dr Christiane Northrup has written of some menopausal patients of hers that were adamant they were not taking HRT. But after exhausting the herbal and nutritional options, the symptoms were still so bad that in the end they opted to take hormone replacement therapy.

One well known herbal treatment for menopause is black cohosh. Also known by the botanical name of Cimicifuga racemosa, this powerful herb is a phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens were originally thought to work by binding to the estrogen receptors in the body. Phytoestrogens are similar to natural estrogen in chemical structure, though they have a milder effect on the body. Thus, when they locked into the estrogen receptors, they were thought to have an effect that mildly mimicked estrogen, thus counterbalancing the reduced levels of estrogen in a woman's body.

However, this is now not believed to be the main way phytoestrogens like black cohosh work. Whilst they do in fact bind to at least one subtype of estrogen receptor, they may actually work to block that receptor, rather than activate it. It is now believed that black cohosh regulates the hormonal system in the body.

Despite a lack of clear understanding in how black cohosh works, scientists have found that it works very well. One study comparing black cohosh with HRT and valium found that it was just as effective in helping both the physical and psychological symptoms of menopause. A Japanese study also found that black cohosh increased bone mineral density, which makes it very useful in preventing age related osteoporosis.

Black cohosh has been found to help 76 to 93% of women find an improvement with the symptoms of irritability, hot flushes, heart palpitations, depression, headaches, and sleep problems. These women took a standardized extract, twice a day.

For more natural remedies for menopause, click here. For HRT and menopause information, click here

Early Menopause

Early or premature menopause is defined as menopause before the age of 40. Premature ovarian failure, surgery, and chemotherapy may all result in early menopause. About one in a hundred women may experience early menopause; some may be teenagers or in their twenties. Symptoms of early menopause tend to be very similar to those of normal menopause. Changes in the timing and duration of menstrual periods and hot flashes are common.

In some women, early menopause may be due to failure of the ovaries and is called premature ovarian failure. It is thought that such failure is due to hormonal, autoimmune or genetic processes, which result in a depletion in the number of viable eggs in a woman?s ovaries. This depletion may be complete, or, in approximately ten percent of women who have premature ovarian failure, partial. These women have a reduced but possible chance of becoming pregnant. Recent research has shown that female twins may be up to four times more times more likely than other women to undergo spontaneous early menopause. Either or both twins may be affected.

Surgery is another cause of early menopause. When the ovaries are removed or damaged during surgery, there is a rapid reduction in estrogen and progesterone levels and the immediate onset of menopause. Because the hormonal changes are so abrupt, menopausal symptoms tend to be more intense.

Women who undergo chemotherapy for cancer treatment may have premature menopause. Cancer-killing drugs may damage other tissues too, including ovarian tissue. Tamoxifen, a drug prescribed in certain types of breast cancer, has an anti-estrogen effect and can also trigger early menopause. Sometimes, chemotherapy-induced menopause may be temporary.

Early menopause can be extremely distressing, particularly when it occurs in younger women who may not yet have had children or completed their families. Besides treatment of menopause symptoms, some women benefit from counseling to address emotional issues.



Menopause provides detailed information on menopause, early menopause, male menopause, menopause and osteoporosis and more. Menopause is affliated with Endometriorsis And Infertility.

Menopause Weight Gain ? Why You Have It And How To Lose It

You?re mature. You?re confident. You?re fat. Okay, maybe you?re not fat, but weight is starting to accumulate around your mid-section and no matter what you do, it?s not going away. You?ve cut your caloric intake, you?ve started doing stomach crunches, you?re parking further away from the entrance at work and you?ve even started taking walks through your neighborhood to burn some calories and lose this additional weight. Still, the pile of mush that overlaps your waistband remains. It?s ugly and it jiggles, but it loves you and it?s going nowhere. Why? These remedies worked just fine when you were younger, but they?re not quite as effective now that you?re approaching menopause.

There?s a very good reason for the stubborn weight surrounding your abdomen. As a matter of fact, this explanation is quite simple ? it?s your hormones. I know they?ve caused numerous problems for you from the day you started menstruating, but your hormones are not quite finished wreaking havoc just yet. You see, as you approach menopause your hormone levels have begun to decline drastically, thus causing the weight gain you?re now experiencing. Many women become complacent and accept this gain in weight as just a normal part of the aging process. While this is certainly an option, it?s not the only avenue that can ? or should ? be taken.

It?s inevitable ? every woman approaching menopause is going to experience symptoms associated with declining hormone levels. As a matter of fact, the decrease in your estrogen level plays a significant role in the weight gain you?re now noticing. You see, estrogen is the hormone which is responsible for causing monthly ovulation. Obviously, as you enter the menopausal years your estrogen level decreases, thus causing your body to eventually cease ovulating. Since your body is producing less estrogen it?s only natural that it will look for other places from where to get needed estrogen. It just so happens that fat cells in your body are capable of producing estrogen, therefore, your body works harder to convert calories into fat to increase estrogen levels.

Unfortunately, you?ll also experience a decrease in your level of testosterone. Why is this unfortunate? Well, testosterone is the hormone that helps your body to create lean muscle mass out of the calories you consume. As you may know, muscle burns more calories than fat cells do, which will contribute to increased metabolism. Obviously, your body burns more calories with a higher metabolic rate.

With the combination of a decrease in estrogen and testosterone levels working against you, you?re now faced with a body determined to be a walking pile of fat. Is it the end of the world? Must you accept this terrible fate bestowed upon you? Absolutely not. Now that you know what?s taking place inside your body, you?re armed and ready with the tools you need to combat these changes, right? You?re well aware of the significant role muscle plays to burn calories, so if you want to be lean and toned you?ll need to build muscle to help your body burn calories.

You?ll benefit tremendously by committing to a regular exercise regimen, which includes weight training to lose the extra weight you?ve gained. It?s not rocket science; it?s simple common sense ? build muscle, burn calories and keep the weight off. By making a few simple lifestyle changes you will reduce many of the menopausal symptoms you?re experiencing and you?ll begin to feel beautiful, youthful and energized once again.

Susan Megge is the founder of http://www.40isbeautiful.com, a website designed to assist mature women as they approach and experience menopause. She is a grandmother, who started experiencing symptoms of menopause several years ago and researched various avenues to deal with these symptoms naturally. This led to her discovery of the significant role that exercise plays in making menopause a very manageable, and even wonderful time in a woman's life.

Know Menopause.....Is this it?

As women move toward their forties and begin to experience many changes in their bodies they begin to question why. Menopause or perimenopause is often one of the last thoughts. The myriad of symptoms associated with perimenopause can be confusing and overwhelming. To add to the confusion and overwhelm each woman's transition through perimenopause and menopause is different. The symptoms experienced and their severity vary drastically. The information available often varies widely from viewing menopause as a disease to the view of 'it's all in your head'. It's no small wonder women are confused. Clinically speaking menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation for 1 year or more. Perimenopause, also referred to as climacteric, is the period of time prior to cessation of menstruation when the bulk of symptoms occur. This transition commonly begins between the ages of forty and fifty five and last for two to seven years. It is not unheard of too begin later or earlier. Menopause is not a disease. It is a natural transition process for women similar to adolescence, only this time moving out of the child bearing years. There is a wide variety of symptoms associated with menopause. Here are the most common twenty. 1. Change in Menstrual Cycle - frequency, duration, flow 2. Hot Flashes/Night Sweats 3. Insomnia 4. Weight Gain 5. Headaches 6. Mood Swings 7. Irritability 8. Depression 9. Infertility 10. Change in Body Odor 11. Decreased Sex Drive 12. Fatigue 13. Forgetfulness/Brain Fog 14. Hair Loss/Thinning Hair 15. Frequent Urination/Stress Incontinence(leaks) 16. Dizziness/Light Headed 17. Increased Anxiety 18. Increased Facial Hair 19. Vaginal Dryness 20. Increased Bloating and/or Gas

It is important to note that these symptoms may be from other causes so it's always advisable to check with your health care provider.

What exactly is responsible for all these symptoms? A woman's body is undergoing hormonal changes. Usually the first change is a gradual decline in progesterone. During this time estrogen levels generally remain stable. Estrogen and progesterone play a check and balance act in a women's body, so when they are out of balance symptoms occur. As perimenopause progresses progesterone continues to decline and estrogen levels begin to fluctuate greatly, again triggering symptoms. At the same time the hormones associated with ovulation and follicle growth, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), are increasing resulting in changes in ovulation. The medical tests for menopause traditionally measure FSH and LH levels and increased level is considered a positive result. The problem with this method is that it doesn't measure estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels which can not only confirm menopause but assist in a treatment plan. There are two other testing methods that are thought to be reliable. Salivary hormone testing measure free hormones in the saliva and can easily be done at the same time for several days to determine a women's personal baseline. The other is a blood test for free (unbound) hormones in the blood. These are options to discuss with your healthcare provider especially if you are considering hormone replacement therapy. Ultimately developing an individual holistic approach is the best way to manage the menopause transition.

Cathy Brennan, owner of Pathways Coaching, is a Professional Coach specializing in Menopausal Women. She thrives on helping her clients maneuver through the menopause transition and design a life that they can't wait to greet each morning. She has been a Professional Coach for 5 years and has 25 years experience as a Registered Nurse and Holistic Health Practitioner. To contact call 860-774-0006, email coach@pathwayscoach, or visit http://www.pathwayscoach.com. For a free Menopause Assessment go to http://www.assessmentgenerator.com/H/cRcoachcmb1156881430.html

Cathy Brennan, owner of Pathways Coaching, is a Professional Coach specializing in Menopausal Women. She thrives on helping her clients maneuver through the menopause transition and design a life that they can't wait to greet each morning. She has been a Professional Coach for 5 years and has 25 years experience as a Registered Nurse and Holistic Health Practitioner. To contact call 860-774-0006, email coach@pathwayscoach, or visit http://ww

Menopause: The Emotional & Psychological Impact

Menopause, which literally means the cessation of menses, represents the stage in a woman's life when her reproductive capacity has been brought to an end. There are many hormonal changes that lead to the cessation of menses. The main cause is the drop in oestrogen.

Hormonal Changes

It has been traditionally assumed that depression and other psychological problems are a direct cause of menopause. However, recent studies have revealed that this is not necessarily true. Researchers have discovered a rise in the incidents of depression in women ranging form 35 to 43 years old, which is a lot before menopause. In most cases, menopause occurs between 49 and 51, although some women may experience it before 40.

Most hormonal changes occur during the few years before menopause, which are referred to as the perimenopausal stage. These changes may increase the production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain connected to depression. This is why mood swings are not uncommon during this period. Another hormonal change during the perimenopausal stage is the decrease in the oestrogen level.

Psychological & Emotional Impact

Oestrogen, which is linked to depression, explains why there are higher depression rates in women than in men. However, as the oestrogen level decreases before menopause, the risk of depression should also decrease.

The increased depression rate encountered during menopause suggests that it is not actually the hormonal changes, but the psychological impact associated with this stage that causes the problems. For most women, the changes in status and fertility associated with menopause affect a wide range of other aspects, such as the way they view themselves and their sexuality.

Menopause is also associated with some changes in body tissues. Breast tissues become less firm, while the genital organs become smaller. Between 50% and 75% of women experiencing menopause have hot flushes, which consist of brief body temperature rises accompanied by sweating and skin flushing. These hot flushes can cause not only physical discomfort, but also occasional social discomfort and sleeping disorders.

Attitude

While everyone agrees that dealing with all the physical changes that occur during menopause is not easy, most psychologists feel that depression during this stage is more a matter of attitude. The changes associated with menopause can be viewed from a different angle. During this stage, women can explore their creativity and social potential and expand their contribution to society. The fact that they are now freed from the fear of pregnancy gives them the opportunity to rejuvenate their sex life. Unfortunately, most women feel that the end of their fertility is the end of their sexuality too.

Psychologists state that women who have a positive attitude on the changes that happen in their body look healthier and are likely to have an increased interest in sex. In contrast, those who believe in the myth that menopause is the end of their womanhood, the start to lose their attractiveness and vitality and look older. Other studies have proved that negative attitudes on menopause also increase the unpleasant symptoms associated with it, such as hot flashes, fatigue, night sweats, sleeping disorders and aches.

Sue Taylor is the webmaster of a site dedicated to the impact on women of undergoing menopause. Refer to http://www.menopausesite.info

Menopause: The Emotional & Psychological Impact

Menopause, which literally means the cessation of menses, represents the stage in a woman's life when her reproductive capacity has been brought to an end. There are many hormonal changes that lead to the cessation of menses. The main cause is the drop in oestrogen.

Hormonal Changes

It has been traditionally assumed that depression and other psychological problems are a direct cause of menopause. However, recent studies have revealed that this is not necessarily true. Researchers have discovered a rise in the incidents of depression in women ranging form 35 to 43 years old, which is a lot before menopause. In most cases, menopause occurs between 49 and 51, although some women may experience it before 40.

Most hormonal changes occur during the few years before menopause, which are referred to as the perimenopausal stage. These changes may increase the production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain connected to depression. This is why mood swings are not uncommon during this period. Another hormonal change during the perimenopausal stage is the decrease in the oestrogen level.

Psychological & Emotional Impact

Oestrogen, which is linked to depression, explains why there are higher depression rates in women than in men. However, as the oestrogen level decreases before menopause, the risk of depression should also decrease.

The increased depression rate encountered during menopause suggests that it is not actually the hormonal changes, but the psychological impact associated with this stage that causes the problems. For most women, the changes in status and fertility associated with menopause affect a wide range of other aspects, such as the way they view themselves and their sexuality.

Menopause is also associated with some changes in body tissues. Breast tissues become less firm, while the genital organs become smaller. Between 50% and 75% of women experiencing menopause have hot flushes, which consist of brief body temperature rises accompanied by sweating and skin flushing. These hot flushes can cause not only physical discomfort, but also occasional social discomfort and sleeping disorders.

Attitude

While everyone agrees that dealing with all the physical changes that occur during menopause is not easy, most psychologists feel that depression during this stage is more a matter of attitude. The changes associated with menopause can be viewed from a different angle. During this stage, women can explore their creativity and social potential and expand their contribution to society. The fact that they are now freed from the fear of pregnancy gives them the opportunity to rejuvenate their sex life. Unfortunately, most women feel that the end of their fertility is the end of their sexuality too.

Psychologists state that women who have a positive attitude on the changes that happen in their body look healthier and are likely to have an increased interest in sex. In contrast, those who believe in the myth that menopause is the end of their womanhood, the start to lose their attractiveness and vitality and look older. Other studies have proved that negative attitudes on menopause also increase the unpleasant symptoms associated with it, such as hot flashes, fatigue, night sweats, sleeping disorders and aches.

Sue Taylor is the webmaster of a site dedicated to the impact on women of undergoing menopause. Refer to http://www.menopausesite.info

Treating Menopause Symptoms Naturally

Women who are currently undergoing the natural changes associated with menopause often have a variety of uncomfortable or frustrating symptoms that accompany the change. Although there are many pharmaceuticals available either over the counter or with a prescription, some quick and simple cures are the natural remedies that women have been using for thousands of years. These natural products are able to treat the symptoms of menopause without potentially harmful side effects or drug interactions.

Many women are experiencing problems due to the diminishing estrogen level in their system due to menopause. This level can be artificially replaces using estrogen replacement therapy, but it may have more serious consequences. Studies have shown that some women who participate in estrogen replacement therapies are at a greater risk of breast and uterine cancers than women who did not participate in the programs. Instead of adding hormones to your body, allow it to change naturally and work to control each symptom. Not all women experience each symptom of menopause, so you should only concentrate on the symptoms that are currently affecting your life and body.

By far, the easiest way to treat your menopause symptoms naturally is to change your diet. Eating a healthy, well balanced diet will not only increase you general sense of health and well being, but also help your body naturally adjust to the changes associated with menopause. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables and be sure to steer clear of foods high in fat, which can potentially cause your body to have more issues when it comes to estrogen regulation.

Instead of replacing lost estrogen, women in menopause should consider using an all natural product that works to mimic the effects of estrogen on the body. One such product in phytoestrogens, commonly used in Japan by women affected by menopause. These plant products are naturally found in foods, especially the soy bean. In addition to adding soy based food to your diet, including tofu and soy substitutes like soy milk and cheese, consider taking a supplement of phytoestrogen. The plant estrogen is not nearly as potent as the hormone produced in the human body, so the increased probability of breast cancer is nil.

Regular exercise will also aid a woman?s body through this naturally changing stage of menopause. Just like eating a healthy and well balanced diet, ensuring your body receives the proper amount of exercise will not only affect your overall sense of health, it will also work to ensure your body is at its healthiest during menopause. Consider joining a gym or joining up with a fellow gal pal in menopause in order to ensure you are sticking to your exercise plan on a regular basis.

Supplements and vitamins are also excellent for curing the problems of menopause. Vitamin C is great for individuals who want to strengthen their immune system and prevent general illnesses and other health related problems. This vitamin is perfect for women who are experiencing hot flashes in association with their menopause, as it expands blood vessels and is packed with bioflavinoids, which work to stop hot flashes in their tracks.

Vitamin E is also another vitamin for women who are looking to combat the problem of incontinency, commonly associated with menopause. This vitamin works by building collagen in order to provide the skin with the utmost elasticity. Menopause often decreases the collagen found in skin, so that the skin?and even the bladder?begins to lose its elasticity, therefore causing incontinence. Vitamin E also helps combat stretch marks and wrinkles, so many women take it in order to keep their skin
looking its best.

Since menopause can zap a woman?s energy, it is critical all women in this stage of their life take a supplement rich in Vitamin B. This tiny vitamin works to combat stress and provides your body with a boost of energy. Although it is available in pill format, some women choose to seek an injection from their doctor on a regular basis because the symptoms of menopause have proven too tiring to continue basic tasks.

Treating the symptoms of menopause naturally is an excellent way to avoid pharmaceuticals and still achieve the same results. For women suffering from the common side effects of menopause, these natural alternatives are excellent ways to ensure the change that is affecting their body does not affect their life.

Menopause Hub is an information site that contains articles, a directory and other Menopause Resources. It can be found at: http://www.menopauseinfohub.com

Menopause and Sex: What Every Woman Must Know

As we enter mid-life, changes abound . But for women, it's not only hot flashes and mood swings that can dominate. Indeed many gals discover that the most disconcerting change of all can be the change in they experience in their sex drive.

In short - it can all but disappear.

For some, replenishing those dwindling hormones -with Mother Nature or Father Pharmaceutical - can be a big help.

But what if hormones aren't on your agenda? Not to worry - there are still things you can do!

Indeed, oftentimes small changes in areas of your life you might not even connect with sex - like nutrition, exercise, or even sleep - can make a huge difference in your ability to not only enjoy sex, but actually look forward to intimate encounters.

Here are five things from my book " Your Perfectly Pampered Menopause" that you can try right now to get your libido off and running!

# 1: Take a Nap

Although this probably doesn't sound either sexy or romantic, experts say that fatigue is the number one killer of great romance, not to mention terrific sex. Because night sweats and hot flashes may be keeping you awake at night, don't be ashamed to steal away for a cozy nap any time you get the chance. If you arrange for a rendezvous' with your partner upon waking, you may be surprised to discover how attuned you have become to what may have been "hidden" sexual desires.

# 2 : Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables

In addition to whatever " aphrodisiac" foods you may have heard of, at mid-life doctors say one of the best sex boosters is a healthy diet. Studies show that when the basic requirements for good nutrition are met, hormones function better. And that means you are less likely to feel the "bumps" in your perimenopause road as easily or as often. Also try eating six small meals a day rather than three large ones. This can help keep blood sugar stable which not only increases your energy level, but also can improve your mood and your desires.

# 3 : Quit smoking

You know it's bad for your heart and lungs - but did you know smoking can also put a damper on your sex life? In studies conducted on perimenopausal and menopausal women, doctors found that smoking as little as one pack a day had a greater ability to decrease sexual function than the hormonal changes of menopause! Smoking is also linked to a decrease in estrogen, which can impact sexual response and vaginal sensitivity. The good news: Just months after you stub that last butt, you'll see an appreciable change in your health - including a upswing in your desire for sex!

# 4: Take Time To Relax

Whether it's curling up with a great book, planting petunias in your garden, or taking a pottery class, take time to relax and watch the benefits flow in the bedroom! Indeed, studies show that stress can be the number one thief of sexual satisfaction, and, some experts say it can put a real damper on desire. The link involves an entire cascade of hormonal activity that is set in motion by your response to stress. Once it starts, it can impact a variety of physiological functions, not the least of which is mood - and desire. And, even if you have the desire to make love, being under stress can inhibit both your ability to become aroused and to reach orgasm. So, take a few deep breaths and learn to relax - and you might be surprised at how much better you feel about making love.

# 5: Buy New Shoes . . .

...or get a new hairdo, change your color, go for a make-over, get a facial, even lose a few pounds. Anything you can do to feel better about yourself IS going to make you feel better about relating to your partner, not just in the bedroom, but in ALL the rooms of your life! Certainly there are important physiological reasons why sex may not be on the top of your list during this time of your life. Sometimes, however, how we feel about ourselves, and even how we view the idea of aging itself, can greatly influence how we feel about having sex and even influence what we think about our own sexuality. Doing whatever you can to enhance your self image - in your own eyes- often translates into feeling better about your partner, your relationship, and ultimately your sexuality and your sensuality.

To learn more visit http://www.YourMenopause.com

Colette Bouchez is the author of "Your Perfectly Pampered Menopause; Health Beauty and Lifestyle Advice for the Best Years of Your Life' and director of http://www.YourMenopause.com

Dealing With Menopause

Menopause is a normal stage of life. Some women may feel that the onset of menopause signals an end to youth and vigor but this is not true.
Many women feel that as they approach menopause they will become old and unattractive but this is simply not true. It is a normal part of life. Menopause that occurs before age forty is referred to as premature but in some cases menopause begins as early as thirty-five. Once ovulation (the releasing of eggs) stops, menstruation ceases. Menopause can be gradual with menstrual periods becoming irregular before complete cessation or it can occur all at once. The symptoms may be different in each woman but even gradual hormonal changes can affect the physical and emotional states dramatically. There are women who have no symtoms at all while others experience severe symptoms. Hormone levels vary as estrogen production slows causing emotional upsets such as anxiety, depression and extreme mood swings. Although these conditons can be treated with medication, most women adapt well on their own.

Among the symptoms that may be experienced are achy joints, hot flashes, changes in sexual desire, difficulty concentrating, headaches, frequent urination, mood swings and insomnia. What some women do not realize is that pregnancy can still occur even at the onset of menopause as long as there is menstruation even if it is sporadic. Precaution should still be taken during this time. Hot flashes which are sudden rises in hormonal levels are probably the most common symptom of menopause and can occur for several years afterward. Physicians may prescribe hormone replacements and vitamin supplements. Regular exercise can help reduce episodes of hot flashes.

Decreased estrogen can cause osteoporosis which is a loss of bone mass. Bones become more brittle and injuries are more likely to occur. Chances of ostroporosis increase where there is a family history or the woman is a smoker. Symptoms usually do not occur in osteoporosis until it is already advanced. Menopause may also bring a change in sexual desire which could be an increase or decrease depending upon the individual. Vaginal dryness can occur and the use of over the counter lubricants may become necessary. Women should consult their physician to see if hormone therapy would be right for them. Hormone therapy can prevent osteoporosis, improve moods and eliminate hot flashes but there are risks including increased risk of breast cancer and risk of heart disease.

The decision to take hormone therapy should be weighed carefully based on the severity of symptoms, chance of osteoporosis and other risk factors involved. Ask the physician to explain all options thoroughly. Many symptoms can be alleviated with proper rest, diet and exercise. Most women find that menopause is not the devastating period of life that they expected it to be but rather a new beginning. For many women a new life experience is just starting now that the children are grown and they have time to pursue different directions in their lives. They may be embarking on a new career for the first time in years, going back to school to continue an education that was put on hold or planning to retire and just relax. Menopause is nothing to fear. It does not represent old or unproductive. It only means change and change is the only constant there really is.

Darlene Zagata is a freelance writer and poet. Her work has appeared in several electronic and print publications. Darlene is the Editor of the Health department at RITRO.com and she co-authors a column with her son at RaisingASon.com. She is also a Review Editor for MyShelf.com and an Editorial Reviewer for The Writer's Room Magazine. Her book of poetry "Aftertaste" is now available at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble. Her first book of fiction, "The Choosing" is currently in the process of publication.

Natural Approaches to Menopause

This past July,a report raised serious new concerns for the six million women taking combination hormone replacement therapy.
In the lastest and statistically most valid study of this subject ever done,it was found that the combination of ESTROGEN AND PROGESTIN taken for MANY YEARS, not only FAIL TO DECREASE THE INCIDENCE OF VASCULAR DISEASE,BUT ALSO INCREASES THE RISK OF HEART ATTACKS,STROKES,BREAST CANCER,AND CLOTTING DISORDERS.
In addition,other recent research has found a possible link between ESTROGEN replacement and OVARIAN CANCER.Although theses risks are not considered to be high,they are REAL-REAL ENOUGH FOR THE INVESTIGATORS TO HAVE STOPPED THE STUDIES IN MID-COURSE.
The DOWNSIDE of HRT OUTWEIGHTED THE BENEFITS.
So what's a Menopausal Woman to do? Read on to learn about HEALTHY and NATURAL ways to approach Menopause.
The ancient Greeks referred to Menopause as the "Climateric" or "Change of Life",and regarded it as a step in the ladder of life.It was considered to be an important step in the maturation of a woman.
In Traditional Cultures,even those of today,there is little or no evidence of the negative symptoms "Modern" people associate with menopause.
In large measure, because the "Traditional"(or what some people would call Primative) human diet is low in fat and animal proteins.
In a healthy person,the body adjusts for the ovarian reduction in estrogen by signaling other glands, (especially the Adrenal glands),to produce more estrogen,preventing the complete loss of the female hormone.However,if the ADRENAL GLANDS ARE WEAKENED BY A LIFETIME OF POOR DIET AND BAD HEALTH HABITS,THEY PROBABLY CANNOT AND WILL NOT MEET THE NEEDS OF THE BODY WHEN MENOPAUSE BEGANS.

Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55,when the ovaries stop producing eggs.The woman also undergoes a number of hormonal changes,including a reduction in estrogen production,an increase in pituitary hormone,and higher levels of male hormones.
With the reduction in estrogen production,also comes an increase in bone loss,a lowering of HDL,(the Good cholesterol),and an increase in cholesterol.This can result in Atherosclerosis,Coronary Heart Disease,and Stroke.
Other changes can occur as well,such as: poor memory,poor concentration,moodiness,anxiety,loss of sex drive,hot flashes,night sweats,and/or vaginal dryness.These changes also increase the likelihood of bladder and vaginal infections.

Traditionalist believe that one of the best approaches to menopause is in the diet.Eating foods rich in Phytoestrogens,which are Plant-Produced ,promote bone health and prevent Cancer.A low-fat,high fiber diet will help the body to adjust more easily to changing hormonal levels.

Such foods are: Whole Grains,Fresh Vegetables,Beans,Seaweed,Miso,Tofu,Seeds and Nuts,(especially Sunflower Seeds).

According to Chinese Medicine,the symptoms of menopause imply a deficiency of YIN fluids,particularly those fluids that calm and relax the liver.A helpful dietary approach then,is to add foods that build the YIN.
These foods are: Wheat Germ, Mung Beans and Sprouts,Tofu,String Beans,Black Beans,Kidney Beans, Barley,Black Sesame Seeds,and Royal Jelly(from bees).

Foods that contain Phytoestrogens help prevent hot flashes and night sweats,as well as some of the psychological changes,(anxiety,moodiness,etc.).
Some of these are: Tofu and other Soy products,Yams,Carrots,Apples,and Potatoes.

Foods rich in Calcium,help prevent Osteoporosis.
Some of these foods are:Sesame Seeds,Almonds,Low-fat Yogurt,Dark Leafy Greens,(such as Kale,Collards,Broccoli),and Sardines.

Foods and Other Things that would be WISE to AVOID:

Animal Foods,Fatty Foods and Fried Foods,
Sugar and Refined Foods(these contribute to mood swings),
Caffeine (can cause hot flashes),
Alcohol (can cause hot flashes),
and use of Tobacco,(we all know by now the dangers of Tobacco).

HERBS TO TREAT MENEPAUSE:

"Chaste Berry":stimulates the production of progesterone and helps balance hormones
(And/or)"Black Cohosh"which has simular properties,and acts in much the same manner as Chaste Berry.Please go to my "Herb of the Month" page to learn more about "Black Cohosh".

"Don Quai":(also known as "Angelica"):stimulates estrogen production and helps balance hormonal levels in young as well as older women.It also boosts energy levels and increases all-over well-being.

"Motherwort":(a member of the Mint family):relieves heart palpitations,reduces pain,but in some people can cause drowsiness,combined with "Sage",will help relieve hot flashes

"Siberian Ginseng":helps strengthen Adrenal Glands,as well as strengthens over-all immune system,and boosts energy levels.BUT IF YOU HAVE A HEART PROBLEM OF ANY KIND,YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE GINSENG.

"Borage":helps strengthen Adrenal glands

"Licorice":strengthens Adrenal glands(IF YOU HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE,OR A HEART CONDITION,DO NOT USE LICORICE)

"Primrose Oil" or Caps:Helps your skin stay supple and soft,helps ease hotflashes and night-sweats,strenghtens heart,
"Vit.E" and "Flax Seed Oil" does much the same as "Primrose".

HERBS TO TREAT TENSION, MOODINESS, AND ANXIETY

"Wild Oats"or"Oatstraw" (good over-all immune booster,increases energy levels,fights anxiety,eases depression)

"Skullcap"(this can cause drowsiness)

"Valerian"(this is fairly strong,and can cause drowsiness,should mainly be used at night for sleeplessness)

"Kava-Kava"(this can cause drowsiness in some people, is also used to manage moodiness,anxiety,& pain)

"Chamomile"(this is very mild,and will not cause drowsiness,can be used safely during day,helps with anxiety,and crankiness)

"Passion Flower"(this can cause drowsiness,it reduces anxiety,and helps with insomnia)

"St.Johns Wort":(reduces depression)

"Hops" (good over-all immune booster)

With any of these herbs,you need to use caution until you know how it will affect you.And unless you are very knowledgeable in the use of herbs,I recommend that you contact a qualified Herbalist or Naturopathic Dr. or Practioner for instructions on use and how much to take.

Traditionally Trained(Native American)Herbalist,Natural Health Care Consultant,Cert.Mental Health Care Consultant,Trained Masseuse on hand for all your health care needs and concerns.Are not the "Natural"forces more Orthodox than the Artificial resources of the Conventional/Allopathic resources of the Druggist or Dr.?!

Menopause and Weight Loss

During menopause, many women report that the challenge of weight loss becomes even more difficult. The need to lose weight haunts women most of the time, and now more men are reporting the same struggle. When women hit menopause, weight gathers around the waist and hips; despite our best efforts to diet and exercise.

What we know is that this additional body fat is linked to your hormones. Most women follow a conventional low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet with lots of processed foods. Eventually this diet creates a condition known as insulin resistance; see Dr. Schwarzbein's book on the book list. When you are insulin resistant, your body converts calories into fat even when you are dieting. Menopause feels like a losing battle, but it doesn't have to be.

When you are stressed, as the body typically is during menopause, stress hormones block weight loss. Despite adequate food, the body acts as if it's in a famine and stores all spare calories as fat.
This leads to a metabolic disorder called adrenal fatigue.

Many women combine a high-stress life with a low-fat, high-carb diet which creates a powerful hormonal imbalance which causes us to gain weight. Yo-yo dieting exacerbates the problem.
Also, when a woman is on a high-carb diet she is often barraged with a craving for sweets. The body can't maintain optimal blood sugar and serotonin levels, so you snack and drink caffeine to feel better. That makes your insulin resistance worse and the vicious cycle of gaining weight is accelerated.

During perimenopause, women lose estrogen which is an added factor to this problem. As estrogen decreases, the body needs extra fat resources. Other factors that play into this problem, are unresolved emotional issues, food sensitivities, digestive issues such as yeast, and even heavy metal toxicity.

So what do we do?

The most important step is to GET HEALTHY!

Follow an eating plan like the one in the Schwarzbein Principle or the Zone Diet

You need protein at every meal, low carbs, very little to no processed food, and lots of fruit and vegetables

Drink plenty of water

Take nutritional supplements

Try Supplements Designed for Menopause

Stop weighing yourself, use your clothes as a gauge (focus on your health not your weight)

Start exercising - walk 4-5 times a week for 30 minute (it boosts metabolism)

Get help for emotional eating - you have to face your fears to get through them

Reduce the stress in your life, make time for fun and relaxation - strive for BALANCE

Learn to love yourself during menopause and accept who you are and at what stage in life you find yourself

Menopause can make weight loss even more challenging for both women and men. But with the right knowledge and some hard work, it can be done.

The information in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice.



Cathy writes frequently on mid-life issues for women and men particularly menopause, and a copy of her book can be found at http://www.howtoconquermenopause.com
To read a sample of this book go to http://www.everythingmenopause.com/currentissue.html

Women???s Health Test ??? Is There an Early Signs of Menopause Test?

Yes, there is a free online women's health test from a leading women's health clinic. Why? As early as in their 30's and 40's, many women begin experiencing symptoms that make them wonder - can these be early signs of menopause?



What are common early signs of menopause? The most common symptoms include PMS, insomnia, fatigue, weight gain, loss of sex drive, hair loss or unwanted hair growth and fibroids. Some women have one or two of these symptoms while others may experience several symptoms at the same time. The result can be mildly irritating or it can be exhausting and overwhelming.

Menopause itself is not an illness but a natural process for a woman's body. There are normal changes in the reproductive system and cycle and ultimately, the reproductive system will cease to function. That is normal. However, certain menopause symptoms are indications of underlying hormonal imbalances or damage from poor eating habits, stress and other factors. And you may feel like you're the only woman to experience symptoms, but millions of women in the industrialized countries are going through the same experience many years before the average age of menopause, which is 51 years of age.

What happens so frequently is that women put enormous demands on their bodies ??? much more stress than it was designed to handle ??? and then do not give it the support it needs. Women likely have demanding and stressful careers. Women have families to take care of on a daily basis. The relationship with one's spouse or partner may not be the best. Aging parents may require help. These and other responsibilities add up in the toll taken on a woman's body.

And at the same time, the woman's body may not be receiving the support it needs to function as it was designed to do. Poor eating habits, lack of exercise, excess caffeine and alcohol add to the problem instead of helping the body cope with the demands placed on it.

This lack of balance between the "demands made" and "support given" is what gives rise to many symptoms. And are the health problems you are having related in any way? Very likely!

When taking the women's health and early signs of menopause test, here's what should be considered:

1. Which symptoms do you have? Certain symptoms are related to each other and are related to the same underlying causes. Knowing which symptoms you have is important information.

2. How mild or severe are your symptoms? Perhaps a symptom is "mild" and it's not a big deal. It may be "moderate to severe", meaning you can deal with it but it is a real problem. Or you may consider it "very severe", in other words, you can barely function because of it.

3. What are you demanding of your body? Are you frequently under stress? Do you not always eat when you should? What prescription drugs are you taking? What about the consumption of caffeine and alcohol?

4. What kind of support are you giving your body? What do you eat, do you exercise and are you taking a high-quality nutritional supplement?

5. What is your age? Your age is important, because you need to compare your health with other women your age.

By taking the online women's health test, you can find out more about your health, symptoms you may have, what those symptoms mean and what you can do about improving your health.



Olinda Rola is the President of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com- a website of physician-recommended natural solutions for a variety of health problems. Visit the website and learn more about ways for improving your health. She is the editor of the free newsletter ???Women???s Health Newsletter???. Go to http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com/womenshealthnewsletter.htmlto subscribe.

The Advantages of Hormone Therapy to Menopause Women

Menopause is a change that any woman would undergo whether she likes it or not.
A woman can be considered menopause when her period ceases. There are changes
that occur in the womans body during menopause, like lesser production of
hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Women are considered menopause when
their menstruation stops for a period of 12 months in a row, the usual age for
women to menopause are ages 45 and 55 years old. Different women experience
different symptoms during menopause on the other hand some women may not feel
any symptoms at all. The usual symptoms accompanying a menopause are as follows:
changes in the period, hot flushes, night sweats as well as sleeping problems
that leads to stress and vaginal changes wherein the vagina may become dry and
thin thus making sex rather painful. Still other women experience thinning of
the bones that leads to loss of height and osteoporosis.



There are ways on how to lessen the effect of menopausal changes like taking
hormones or hormonal pills. These hormones or hormonal pills can reduce hot
flushes, treat vaginal dryness as well as slows down bone deterioration.
However, before taking any hormones or hormonal pills, women should try to visit
their doctors first for a complete checkup in order to get the right kind of
hormones or hormonal pills that would best suit them. Like any medicine,
hormones or hormonal pills have risks and benefits. Hormones or hormonal pills
are not advisable for women who are pregnant, have problems with vaginal
bleeding, have cancers, have or had a stroke or heart attack in the past year,
have blood clots and have liver disease.



The use of hormones or hormonal pills is part of a hormone therapy for women who
are undergoing menopause. In addition, hormone therapy is also termed as hormone
replacement therapy (HRT). Hormone therapy for menopausal women reduces the
effect of menopause in women. Hormone therapy is considered to be one of the
most effective relief for various menopausal symptoms. Hormones also reduces the
chance for women to have osteoporosis. Aside from that, hormone therapy able
women to have an active sex life since it help in the production of vaginal
lubrication. The most common hormones given to women who are undergoing
menopause are estrogen or estrogen with progestin which is another hormone.
Hormones or hormonal pills should be taken at the lowest dose as possible and as
much as possible to be taken only for a short period.

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