Millions of American women, ranging in age from 30 to 80, are in some phase of menopause, the biological process that occurs as a woman's estrogen and progesterone levels drop, her ovaries stop releasing eggs and her menstrual periods decrease.
Menopause is an important health issue. Women who understand the biochemistry of their bodies during menopause are less likely to misinterpret and fret about the physical, psychological and emotional symptoms.
Most women have some understanding of the physical aspects of menopause: unusual and, or erratic periods, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, loss of sexual desire.
While related to the physical effects, the psychological and emotional aspects are not as well understood or accurately recognized. For example, menstruation is an important part of a woman's identity and life experience, providing monthly reassurance that she is healthy and that she is not pregnant. So when, with the onset of menopause, there are changes in character and frequency of the menses, there is often an accompanying psychological and emotional disorientation.
A woman may become depressed because she fears that she's losing her youth and femininity.
Erratic periods and hot flashes may result in a woman feeling that she's not in control of her bodily functions. She may lose confidence, fearing embarrassment about the changes she's experiencing. If uncomfortable night sweats are causing her to lose sleep, she may also feel cranky and mentally fatigued.
Lack of interest in sex accompanied by vaginal dryness can have a very negative psychological effect on a woman raised in a culture obsessed with youthful sexuality. Her sense of self-esteem and attractiveness as a woman may be seriously diminished.
As if all these changes weren't traumatic enough, they are processed by a brain that is probably affected by lowered estrogen levels. Researchers believe estrogen has effects on the brain that are similar to the chemical effects of antidepressants. In her book on menopause, "The Silent Passage," Gail Sheehy writes that when estrogen levels drop, a woman may experience sadness, irritability or moodiness that is sometimes interpreted as clinical depression.
Fortunately, there are healthy ways to manage the symptoms of menopause.
A woman who is going through menopause needs to determine what, if any, regimen or treatment will work best for her. It is essential for her to read all the literature, (recently updated, "The Silent Passage" is a good beginning along with the books of Dr. Christianne Northrup) from many and varied informed sources. She needs to see a doctor who is up-to-date on menopause research and treatment options. Most important, the menopausal woman needs to share her concerns and experience with other women, informally or perhaps through participation in a support group.
The notion that menopause is the beginning of old age is a myth. With attention to good health, exercise and nutrition, a woman can expect to live for perhaps another 30 or more years after menopause.
With loving self-care of her physical and mental health, those years can be a fulfilling, creative and dynamic chapter in her life.
Based in Rockport, relationship coach Susan Britt, M.Ed. helps couples, families, friends and co-workers turn conflict into compassion.
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