VIVA LA MENOPAUSE Life Can Still Be Awesome

In the last fortnight the topic of menopause has crashed out of the closet thanks to Joe Duffy airing the topic for five consecutive days.

Sadly, it was immediately apparent that thousands of women did not know where to turn for help. Most were lacking in information on menopause or whether any help was available for them.

The level of distress by women was palpable.

An ongoing social media survey being carried out by The Scotia Clinic shows that over 90% of respondents do not understand the terminology about menopause. Most women state that they need more information on treatments and are open to considering HRT to manage symptoms.

Mental health issues are a big concern for most people replying to our survey.

So here are some facts!!

· The average age of menopause in Irish women is 52. However, 1% of women can develop premature ovarian insufficiency (early menopause) before age 40.

· Perimenopause is the gradual transition to menopause that occurs as the ovaries produce less oestrogen. I can start in the early 40’s, or even earlier and can last for up to 8-10 years.

Menopause is the date of the last period

· Symptoms can include hot flushes, sweats, difficulty sleeping, tiredness / exhaustions, poor concentration, aches and pains, mood changes, reduced sex drive.

Later symptoms include vaginal dryness.

Changes in the quality of skin and hair also take place.

Around the time of menopause, we lose around 30% of collagen leading to skin laxity. Muscle mass occurs in addition to bone thinning.

Symptoms may be short-lived or can last for even ten to twelve years.

Invisible problems related to menopause can include osteoporosis, cardiovascular risk among others

· Many women can be reluctant about taking Hormone Replacement Therapy(HRT). However, the most modern research can be reassuring regarding HRT.

There are also many alternative therapies including CBT, Non hormonal medications and lifestyle modifications. Vitamin D will help our bones and it also helps energy levels and moods. The Omegas are valuable for brain function.

Exercise programmes can help to slow down loss of muscle and bone mass.

A very important message for women to hear is that there are many avenues to pursue in seeking help. There is no need to suffer in silence.

In the last fortnight women now feel they can, AND SHOULD, seek help.

The Scotia Clinic plan to establish Viva La Menopause, a social media based Group where evidence based medical information can be posted. We are hoping that experts in associated areas of exercise, skin care and hair issues will also assist women.

Prior to Covid it was possible to have meetings where women could get information. At the moment this is not feasible but we hope to launch regular “menopause café” sessions where women’s questions can be addressed.

It is important to realise that nothing can replace a good medical consultation and your healthcare professional will be very willing to guide you in dealing with menopause related problems.

Information Resources www.menopausematters.co.uk www.daisynetwork.org (resource for women with early menopause) www.menopause.org/for-women

Ph: (066) 7181100
The Scotia Clinic, Scotia House,Manor West, Tralee Co. Kerry