Looking on the Bright Side
The end of your reproductive years brings a big change in hormonal activity, and as every woman knows, hormones have a huge impact on your quality of life. However, there’s a big difference between perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause) and menopause itself; for many women, menopause means more balance, and a chance to explore abilities without annoying discomforts.
While physical changes are inevitable, it’s the way you perceive the changes – and rise to the challenges – that will make all the difference. Set your sights on the positive aspects of menopause, and learn how to handle common menopausal concerns in healthier, more productive ways.
How Quality of Life Improves in Menopause
It’s true that menopause imposes some biological limits, but it also brings some new freedoms. As your body transitions into this new phase, relish the relief and comfort that’s coming your way:
- No more periods. Menstrual periods – and the PMS symptoms that come along with them – are never fun to deal with, but they can be especially bothersome during the perimenopause phase. Luckily, menopause brings an end to the painful cramping, heavy bleeding, and unpredictable spotting that many women experience in the preceding years. And the fact that you don’t have to worry about tampons, pads or potential embarrassment is very liberating!
- Hormonal stability. Perimenopause is typically a volatile time in terms of hormonal activity. Spiking and dropping levels of estrogen and progesterone can wreak havoc on your physical and emotional wellbeing, which often affects mood, self-confidence, and even relationships. Although much less estrogen is produced once menstrual cycles end, your body will appreciate the constant level.
- Worry-free sex. Well, perhaps not entirely worry-free (STDs are a threat at any age), but you won’t have to concern yourself with pregnancy prevention any longer. It may seem like a small concession, but studies reveal that most women report more sexual enjoyment, since they can focus on the moment and not a potentially unwelcome outcome.
- Fewer migraine headaches. If you suffer from migraines, you’ll be pleased to know that the road ahead will probably be much more comfortable. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone in a regular menstrual cycle will trigger headaches in 70% of migraine-prone women, so once that cycle comes to an end and hormones even out, those menstrual migraines will be a thing of the past.
