Every woman has a different script for her hormones during the perimenopausal years. In fact, your hormones could be doing a number of different things in the years leading up to menopause. Fluctuating hormones often bring about a host of short-term physical symptoms including bloating, irritability, mood swings, lethargy, food cravings, headaches, anxiety, increased stress and more. The good news, once a woman reaches menopause, hormones tend to stabilize. However, in the years leading up to menopause, many women experience a few bumps in the hormonal journey.
Seventy percent of women of menopausal age work. Navigating the menopausal map during these working years can be somewhat of a challenge. While life continues through menopause and beyond, there are some tips and tricks that can help both you and your employer maneuver through these transitional years and foster a professional environment that can be a win-win. In decades past, perimenopause and menopause have been seen as a private matter, thus causing many women to feel they have to hide their symptoms at work and subsequently, many women felt uncomfortable and ill prepared to seek mutually beneficial solutions.
With many changes and new symptoms, some women attribute their extra stress and irritability to the increasing pressures of advancing in their career, raising growing children and/or caring for aging parents. However, with knowledge, communication, education and understanding, women can help to foster an environment of support and encouragement.
Menopause can be one of the most emotional, stressful, psychologically draining times. All women are invited to attend the Red Hot Mamas seminars and support group. It’s never too early to start eating healthfully, balancing your hormone levels and educating yourself about the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. So whether you’re in your 20s, 30s or 40s, we are here to help women through the transition with information and education.
I will be hosting the Red Hot Mamas seminar on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at Portneuf Medical Center. The seminar is “Working and Menopause.” We will discuss the stages of menopause, symptoms including hot flashes and dry eyes, sleep issues at work, causes of stress and how to cope with stress. Doors open at 6pm; the presentation begins at 6:30. Light refreshments will be served.
Of course, some of the same symptoms of PMS and perimenopause may be associated with other medical conditions. It is important for all women to have an ongoing relationship and dialog with their primary care physician. Ask questions and be sure to let them know if you are experiencing any new or unusual changes. To reach the Pocatello Women’s Health Clinic or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cox call 208-232-8792.