On the S.S. GOT Men-o-pause?

Menopause is the transition period in a woman's life when her ovaries stop producing eggs, her body produces less estrogen and progesterone and menstruation becomes less frequent, eventually stopping altogether.    The baby factory shuts down for business and it retires to Boca Raton.

See also:  crazy-town.

The Seven Dwarves of Menopause -

It is also something I hate to say I am looking forward to at the ripe old age of 32?  

Okay, feel free to slap me, I know that's insane or is it?  It could be that I am 32 with a child turning 14 tomorrow, and my youngest is turning five next month, and I AM SO OVER BABIES AND GIRL PROBLEMS.

OMG I HAVE A 14 YEAR OLD.

Sidetracked:  It's apparently Menopause Awareness Month who knew?  

Get yourself educated!  

In some women, menstrual flow comes to a sudden halt. More commonly, it slowly stops over time. During this time, the menstrual periods generally become either more closely or more widely spaced. This irregularity may last for 1 - 3 years before menstruation finally ends completely. Before this the cycle length may shorten to as little as every 3 weeks.

Common symptoms of menopause include (Wow this is all inclusive!):

• Heart pounding or racing

• Hot flashes

• Night sweats

• Skin flushing

• Sleeping problems (insomnia)

Other symptoms of menopause may include:

• Decreased interest in sex, possibly decreased response to sexual stimulation

• Forgetfulness (in some women)

• Headaches

• Irregular menstrual periods

• Mood swings including irritability, depression, and anxiety

• Urine leakage

• Vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse

• Vaginal infections

• Joint aches and pains

• Irregular heartbeat

Taking care of yourself during menopause is particularly important for a weight loss surgery post op due to the hormonal changes it causes.  The lack of estrogen during and post menopause can trigger serious bone loss, or osteoporosis.  For persons with a mal-absorptive weight loss surgery procedure, we are already at risk of bone depletion! 

You can reduce your risk of long-term problems such as osteoporosis and heart disease by taking the following steps:

• Control your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease.  (Including your WEIGHT!)

• Do NOT smoke. Cigarette use can cause early menopause.

• Eat a low-fat diet.

• Get regular exercise. Resistance exercises help strengthen your bones and improve your balance.

• If you show early signs of bone loss or have a strong family history of osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about medications that can help stop further weakening.

• Take calcium and vitamin D.

Be aware of your body, learn all you can about menopause and take your vitamins!