My menopause — my lessons

#AD – Menopause.  

Shhh … don’t say it too loudly! It’s a time in our lives filled with spontaneous hot flashes, mood swings, worse-than-usual periods, and more.  

Although many of us also know it as, “the change,” far too many of us were not prepared for it to come pounding at our back door. Our mothers and grandmothers didn’t talk about it with us in great detail — or at all, and we didn’t learn about it in high school.  

As we look back, though, it was so clear.  

Do you remember seeing your mother wearing short sleeves in the winter, or sleeping with a fan on the highest of speeds at night? What about a quick peek into the freezer for some relief? For no reason, I would see beads of sweat forming on my mom’s face and neck. It was so weird to me at the time, but oh do I understand now!

We were watching our mothers and grandmothers go through menopause, and the next generation is watching us. What will they see? What will they learn? Will they be empowered to push through this season with boldness and confidence or dread an inevitable part of their life out of fear of the unknown?  

I’d like to share three things that have stood out for me throughout this journey, and how I would like to encourage you.  

Keep asking questions.

Let’s just say that you’re pretty knowledgeable when it comes to your medical chart. You know when your body feels great, when you’re bleeding more than usual, or when you’re feeling wiped out.  When you go to the doctor, ask questions with boldness and confidence. Don’t be dismissed. If you feel like your doctor may not be the right one for this season of life, don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion. Each woman has a different experience with menopause. You can do it!

Keep moving.

Exercising may not be at the top of your list, but it’s something you should reconsider. I know, I know — the last thing you want to do is add more sweat to the hot flash collection. However, when you exercise, your body releases endorphins. In short, you feel amazing! It can be hard to get the motivation or energy to exercise if you haven’t had a full night’s rest, but consider this as a must. You can simply take a walk around your office parking lot, or check out a Zumba class — anything to have fun and keep you moving!

Keep talking.

The next generation needs to know the truth about menopause, and you’re their most trustworthy resource. Talk about the signs of menopause. Talk about ways to effectively communicate with your doctor, your spouse, and your children. Reassure them that everything is going to be just fine, and that they are not alone. Also, don’t hesitate to share some funny stories from your journey. We’ve all had a hot flash in the middle of a big meeting! Visit www.findurcool.com to join the conversation!

For more resources, visit www.healthywomen.org  

All opinions expressed in this post are my own.

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This post is sponsored by TherapeuticsMD, Inc.

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