Menopause

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause affects each woman differently, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: Sudden feelings of heat in the upper body, often accompanied by sweating.

Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping, often due to night sweats.

Mood Changes: Increased risk of mood swings, anxiety, and depression.

Vaginal Dryness: Can lead to discomfort during intercourse.

Reduced Libido: Decreased interest in sexual activity.

Cognitive Changes: Issues with memory and concentration, often referred to as “brain fog”.

Physical Changes: Weight gain, joint pain, and changes in skin elasticity

Lifestyle Measures

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly alleviate menopausal symptoms and improve overall well-being:

• Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Weight-bearing exercises like dancing or jogging are particularly beneficial for maintaining bone density.
• Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Adequate Sleep: Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a restful sleeping environment to manage sleep disturbances.
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, tai chi, or meditation to reduce stress and improve mood.
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: These can exacerbate symptoms and negatively impact overall health

Medical Treatments

For those experiencing severe symptoms, medical treatments may be necessary. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is commonly used to relieve symptoms by replenishing oestrogen and progesterone levels. HRT can be administered in various forms, including tablets, patches, or gels, and is generally safe for women under 60 who are in good health.

Non-hormonal treatments such as vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can alleviate vaginal dryness. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is also recommended for managing mood swings and anxiety

What is Gina?

Gina is a low-dose, locally applied estrogen treatment available over-the-counter in some regions. It is specifically designed to treat vaginal dryness and discomfort without the systemic effects of traditional HRT, making it a suitable option for women who cannot or prefer not to use systemic hormone therapies.