Menopause and MS
Menopause usually starts in women between the ages of 45-55, with the average age in the UK being 51. Menopause is a natural part of aging for women, however, not all women have symptoms, but most will experience some.
There are 3 stages of menopause: Perimenopause and Menopause.
Perimenopause:
From the age of 45 onwards most females can start to experience symptoms. At this point the body’s hormone levels are varying. It is still possible to get pregnant at this stage.
Menopause:
Average ago of Menopause is 51, it is when you haven’t had a period for 12 months. At this point you cannot conceive.
Post-menopause:
The body continues to produce Estrogen and Progesterone but at a low level. You may have menopausal symptoms for years, but they do lessen in time.
Symptoms:
Hot flushes.
Night sweats.
Mood changes.
Low mood.
Sleep changes.
Vaginal dryness.
Reduced sex drive.
Hair thinning.
Increased hair growth i.e. face, neck, chest & upper back.
Dry skin, mouth and eyes.
Headaches and migraines.
Cognitive changes: difficulty concentrating, memory.
Painful stiff joints.
Irregular periods.
Lack of energy.
Reduced muscle mass.
Reduced bone mass-risk of osteoporosis.
Increases UTI’s.
Increased urination.
Racing heart.
Weight gain.
Licensed UK Treatments:
Menopause and MS:
Many of the symptoms of Menopause are similar to those of MS, please talk to your MS Nurse if you think you are menopausal. We would encourage you to seek treatment with HRT as bone density reduces in Menopause and we want to prevent any fractures if you had any falls.
Also the menopausal symptoms maybe irritating your MS especially the hot flushes, therefore, again the HRT may help not only the Menopause but your MS too.
Websites
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/
https://www.talkingmenopause.co.uk/
menopausesupport.co.uk – Supporting You Through Change
The Menopause Charity - Menopause Facts, Advice and Support
Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiwkTf9hr6M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxfQqzIJMgw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6p2-FuwvaU
Books:
Menopausing: Davina McColl
Preparing for the Perimenopause and Menopause: Dr Louise Newson
Apps:
Balance
https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
Caria