FAQs

I'm 43yrs old and have only had two periods in the last year. Recently, I have begun to have hot flushes and feel as if this may be the menopause. What do you think and can I buy books to read from you on this subject?

Answer

Menopause is said to have occurred when, in the absence of a pregnancy, a woman has not had her monthly period for more than 12 months. It occurs for women in Australia on average at about 51 yrs, but can come anywhere between the ages of 40-55 yrs.

Women can feel 'different' at this time in their lives, much the same way as things felt different all those years ago as their periods first started. Some of the changes women can feel are; hot flushes, occurring from every so often at times of stress or maybe with hot foods, to many times a day which may stop them sleeping at night. Some women feel lacking in energy or maybe more moody or teary than usual, some feel that their need for sex changes. In one survey, 64% of women said that their sex lives had either not altered or improved following menopause. Others get headaches or a funny creeping feeling under their skin. These new feelings can last for different lengths of time for different women, from months to years. Whilst some women can feel as if this is a door closing, others look forward to a time free of the worry of pregnancy and periods! It is very important for women to take care of themselves at this time and to talk to those around them and get the support and understanding that they need. Making sure that there is plenty of exercise, looking at the stress in their lives and that they are eating a well balanced diet, will help keep women strong and healthy. Some women will get relief from their symptoms by including foods such as lentils and chickpeas, soy products such as tofu and soy milks in their diet. Others will use over the counter products to relieve symptoms.

About 30% of women will seek medical help, perhaps Hormone Replacement Therapy, for care of these feelings. A doctor can also talk with women about other medical tests that can be useful at this time for looking at her risk of disease. Some of these might include; cholesterol testing or bone density testing (particularly if menopause occurs in the forties). Healthrites has many books for sale for women who want to read more on this. Please check our website for details of books available. Call Family Planning's Healthline on 1300 658 886 to talk to a nurse.