Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Your Menopause and Weight Gain

Sad, but so true, one of the #1 most common symptoms of menopause is weight gain, as well as a change in the overall shape of your body.About 90% of pre menopausal and menopausal women gain weight, an average of 10-15 pounds.
Women who have an early menopause or surgical menopause (due to cancer treatments or hysterectomies) may experience more rapid and extreme weight gain. Lovely!
Here's the kicker, when it comes to menopause and weight gain - you may be eating and exercising exactly the same way you always were, but you still can't seem to maintain your previous weight. You continue to gain, and it seems to be landing right around your middle?
As you enter the early stages of pre menopause, maintaining weight becomes more and more difficult, and losing weight becomes almost impossible. This is because of a fluctuation in your hormones.
Your hormones have direct impact on your appetite, your metabolism and fat storage. This is why it is so difficult to control your weight gain during menopause, no matter what you do. Fluctuating Estrogen, Progesterone, and Androgen will fight you all the way.
Estrogen:
This is the female sex hormone that is responsible for causing monthly ovulation. During female menopause, your estrogen levels decline rapidly, and your body will stop ovulation. Estrogen also seems to play a big role in the weight gain. As your ovaries produce less estrogen, your body works harder to convert calories into fat; the fat is used to increase those depleting estrogen levels. Unfortunately for you, fat cells don't burn calories the way muscle cells do, which causes you to pack on unwanted pounds.
Progesterone:
As we enter menopause, progesterone levels will also decrease. Like estrogen, lover levels of this hormone can be responsible for weight gain, or at the least, the appearance of it. Water retention and menopause often go hand in hand, since water weight and bloating are due to the decreasing progesterone levels. Your clothes will probably feel tighter and you may - ok, you will - feel heavier.
Androgen:
This hormone is responsible for sending your new pounds directly to your middle section (oh, joy!). In fact, menopause and weight gain is often known as the "middle age spread" because of the rapid growth of the mid section. Often, one of the first signs of menopause is an increase of androgen in your body, which causes you to gain weight around your abdomen instead of around your hips and hind end.
Drops in the hormone testosterone, insulin resistance and stress are all big contributors to your weight gain during menopause as well. Constant inactivity and thyroid disorders also come into play.
The bottom line is that our hormonal imbalances can decrease lean muscle mass, thus, fewer calories will be burned. The cells need less energy and thus store more fats, which will then accumulate in and on the body. You, as a smart, unique, put-together woman, have many ways to address this change, as well as your menopause and weight gain.
Corby Campbell Shields
Co-Author Menopause Master Plan
http://menopausemasterplan.com/

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Monday, January 30, 2012

Surviving the menopausal symptoms

Women menopause affair. There are a variety of reasons. Not only are they must cope with the psychological aspects of child-bearing age cannot be "more", women also need to navigate the symptoms is involved is the "change". Night perspiration are waves between famous females in their 40 's, 50 's and 60 's. But even more distressing than night sweats weight gain, depression problems waves, irritability, moodiness, vaginal dryness, lack of libido, a host of other problems associated with menopause. Dealing with all these symptoms can be very confusing, no matter who you are.
Finding a way to carry the symptoms of menopause or weaken them important to most women. There are several herbal and homeopathic treatment has to help women cope with certain phenomena but some herbs or homeopathic treatment drugs exist to cure all the problems in one fell swoop. However, women who are symptom especially the caves, these herbs and homeopathic treatment can be helpful.
Synthetic hormones, which are created artificially, have been used since the 1930s to help women cope with their haormonliim changes. Unfortunately, synthetic hormones are correlated with already has an abundance of negative side effects and very desirable (such as breast cancer). But some women still take the risk and forward and use synthetic hormones to cope with menopause, there are other, less dangerous options.
Bioidentical hormones derived from plants, developed are the same as those produced by the human body itself. They have already proved to help relieve the symptoms of the menopausal women. Using bioidentical hormones in the treatment of the symptoms often handles all related to menopause, and chipping away at one symptom of the problem at a time. Women often feel young again rejuvenated. As a result, they feel like they can enjoy their golden years, not afraid of them.
Coping with severe symptoms of menopause is not easy. Fortunately, many women have found relief through different forms of treatment to calm the symptoms. During the handling of synthetic hormones herbs homeopathic treatment is already in use for a while to allow women to cope with menopause bioidentical hormones, are a more natural approach. Avoid the health implications of menopause also to keep older women look, feel healthy for many years in the future.
PhysioAge medical group specializes in helping women by providing options for treatment of menopause, that will help you make it through the terrible symptoms associated with it. Call them today to find out if they can help!

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Sunday, January 29, 2012

The Sum of All Parts, Menopause Is Physical and Emotional

Everything we think, and feel, effects who we are, as well as our body. Everyday, and some times every hour or minute, things "Feel "different.This is why one day, we know that the whole world is on our shoulders, and another day we have a ton of pep or are floating on air.How we eat, what we eat, and how we handle stress can also affect us physically. Having a healthy body requires work on our diet and nutrition, sure it does. But it also requires emotional work and physical exercise. We really can't be whole, and come into our own, until we can get a handle on all aspects of who we truly are.
Yes, to do this requires time and effort. But once again, this body of ours has to last, and work, and move and be, for another 30-50 years. It's like a new car. If you know you need to keep it for the next 10 years, you take really good care of it, do you not, so it will last that long and run well?
What we do not want is; poor healthy, a ton of disease and a scooter chair, right? We also don't want to go though life without grace, love and happiness. You see, it's a whole package, like the car; tires, power windows, CD player. We are made up of so many different, fabulous, unique components.
And we get sick, and we have illness and disease when we do not look at our selves as a whole. And all of those things, everything impacts us. Our emotional well being and our physical strength are truly connected to stress management, unresolved emotional issues, loneliness and loss.
How about treating our body like the best friend it truly is!
Let's consider visualization and meditation in treating our hormonal imbalance. Down times give our adrenal gland and our minds a bit of a rest. This in part, helps with our menopausal symptoms such as breast tenderness, hot flashes and anxiety.
We know what sounds sooth us and draw us in; sounds of nature, chants, ocean waves, Bach, and rhythmic beats are calming. So are drums and pan flutes...think spa music. ( Which reminds me, indulge sometimes, book a massage, it helps as well).
Exercise, and move, our bodies crave it everyday, please. I promise, the more you do, the more you will want to do it. Not only does it help with balancing your hormones, but it's just such a huge gift to give your mind.
Exercise helps with stress, it calms us and boosts our positive moods. Exercise helps keep our bones strong and dense, and burns calories. Moving helps us from gaining more menopause weight and it reduces our risk of breast cancer, heart attacks and stroke.
We deserve to be the best we can possibly be. We can do this though awareness of what we really want and need. We can start by getting control of the stress in our lives, and reaching out to others.
-Interact with your Great Spirit everyday
-Be kind, give back, and play nice.
-Do not judge or stereotype so quickly
-Change negative thinking into positive thinking
-Feel your feelings, then let them go, move forward
-Move your body every day, exercise it at least 3 days a week.
-Sleep 8 hours a night, you will live longer and better because of it.
-Eat clean, whole, real foods, drink lots of water
-Meditate or take deep breaths, and a time out, everyday, and as needed, to keep in charge of that nasty stress.
-Take a day off to relax, read, play in your yard, and go to the beach. Do it without a " to do" list in your pocket, and guilt.
-Indulge in a hobby...garage sales, surfing, gardening, and scrapbooking...whatever floats your boat. Enjoy!
-Learn to laugh, smile more, and don't take yourself so seriously.
We need to work with and on our minds, emotions and physical bodies in every way, to be the best, we can possibly be. And you are such a strong, unique and beautiful person! I wish for you to be truly, truly whole.
Corby Campbell Shields
Co-Author Menopause Master Plan
http://www.menopausemasterplan.com/

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Saturday, January 28, 2012

You, Menopause and the Exercise Pill

Wow, seriously! More than 60% of American women of all ages do not do the recommended amount of exercise as prescribed by the U.S. Surgeon General. And 25-40 % of women in America, as well as up to 56% of Canadian women, between the ages of 45-65, are doing nothing, absolutely nothing, at all. I bet there is a lot of other unhealthy news though out the rest of the globe; I am just not that familiar with those statistics.No wonder menopausal women are sick and tired of being sick and tired. How are our unused and abused bodies going to function and keep us healthy and going for the next 30-50 years, if we don't do a thing to help our poor bodies out?
It's like owning a car; and you never change the oil, always give it crappy gas and never get a tune up. And then you expect that car to just run, well, with no problems, for miles and miles.
We need to treat our bodies like the best friend that it truly is...with love respect, and care. You might be saying, "Not that, I am exhausted, and I can't try and deal with this demand on my time, too". What if exercise was the pill that could make you feel better?
Think exercise won't help with anything you are going though...I bet it will and can:
- Exercise gives you more energy
- Exercise helps you to sleep
- Exercise helps counter anxiety and depression
- Exercise helps you to relax
- Exercise helps you cope with stress
- Exercise improves your self-image
- Exercise gives you an opportunity to socialize and meet new friends
Did you notice anything in that list that might sound like how you feel?? Your body is crying out for a little help here. Stronger muscles aid that 'Bestie" body in a lot of ways.
When bone is stressed though weight bearing exercise, it increases bone mass and reduces bone loss. So it helps with osteoporosis.
When you increase in your muscle mass, that reduces the amount of fat you carry, and your body does a better job of burning calories.
When you add strength and flexibility exercises to your life, it helps decrease your risk of falls, it also increases your stability. Less injuries and less chronic pain is a good thing.
Stronger muscles protect us from injury during normal daily activities. Everything from gardening, lifting, or vacuuming becomes easier.
Core exercises strengthen the muscles in your abdomen and back, helping to prevent low back pain. These exercises also help to improve your posture.
My back used to hurt all the time, why? Because the muscles in my back and stomach were so out of shape, they were doing nothing to support my frame and my bones. So one wrong twist or lift, and I was down flat and out of commission for a number of days.
Once I decided to strengthen all those core muscles, wallah, my back doesn't hurt anymore. My knee was truly wacked too, same deal, out of shape, no muscle strength, and now it works better than it has in years.
Sure, it's hard to get motivated to get out there.. But I bet once you get going, you are really going to be glad you did. And you will feel so much better, mentally and physically because you did something.
Seriously, this is really good for you.....THERAPY.
Grab a girlfriend,, take off and dish your heart out, while you walk around the park.
Join an exercise dance class and go 3 times a week after work. This is a great way to blow off steam, and work on your sexy.
How about water aerobics...if its 100 degrees or 10, you can still be in the heated water moving that body. (Sweating and hot flashes don't have much effect on you in this exercise...nice!)
I do some of my best thinking when I am out on a hike. Something about that time alone, thinking, gives me another way to look at a problem, and usually, find a solution.
I am asking you to do something for YOU, pretty please?
If your best friend asked for help, you would be there in a heart beat, right? Guess what, your heartbeat needs you to be there, for it, and the rest of you.
Corby Campbell Shields
Co-Author Menopause Master Plan
http:///www.menopausemasterplan.com

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Friday, January 27, 2012

Yoga and transition

Menopause is accepted as one of the most challenging steps physically, emotionally draining mode of life of the woman. Symptoms such as anxiety, vol, hot flashes, feeling helpless and embarrassed, all combine to make life very difficult for women experiencing menopause.
While menopause is a natural biological process, there are many different methods on wanted persons and to ensure the transition process is smoother and more comfortable.
A natural method of increasing popularity is yoga. ?????????, yoga can help you relieve feelings of anxiety and tension, clear your mind then it is more able to cope with the many significant changes happening in your life.
Here are some of the bands most popular Yoga for women experiencing menopause.
1)-kapalabhati breathing exercise that helps this is primarily to reduce feelings of tension in the chest.
2) be a warrior- allows to improve stamina, balance and concentration. In addition, there is also a fact to be a warrior for alleviating back pain.
3) be a tree- also known as Tadasana, this is useful for strengthening the ankles, the young, back muscles, while showing significant benefits to the groin, hip diseases. This position is best by who flat feet or sciatica.
4) position of the boat- this is a useful position for muscular tone in the abdominals. Boat position can also be used to relieve stress and improve digestion.
5) arc arc promotes the elasticity of the spine, while also improving posture, vitality, reducing the fats around the abdomen. This position that also help the digestive system and enhance the reproductive system.
To increase the effectiveness of Yoga should try and create a regular, you know that you can perform the exercises without disturbances and tension. Create a relaxing environment is part of the process of relaxation, but one that is often forgotten.
While yoga can help relieve symptoms that already exist, many natural herbs to stop these symptoms also occur. Curcuma comosa already show to prevent recurrence in many efficient menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness and vol, kind of downcast.
For fighting the symptoms of menopause is not easy, but there are options. Practice exercises such as yoga, taking medicinal supplements such as Curcuma comosa, certainly you can do a positive change.

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Thursday, January 26, 2012

What Are The Symptoms of Menopause?

It is very important to realize that it is innate for every woman to undergo a life process known as menopause; it is a stage in a woman's life when her fertility cycle ends; it is during this stage that ovaries halted producing the hormone estrogen and the reproductive cycle starts to deteriorate. Generally, when a woman reaches the age of 50, they may experience symptoms of menopause. Although some other women who have been diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, thyroid disease or other autoimmune deficiencies may have an early onset of menopause as early as 40 years old. More so, symptoms of menopause can even be manifested to some few while they are still in their early 30s, especially to women who had gone through surgery like hysterectomy wherein either the two ovaries or the uterus are removed.The period or duration of menopause symptoms may vary for every woman. Nevertheless, most of the symptoms of menopause commonly last for years after onset and get betters as it goes on. There are women who may find some difficulties in both physical and psychological changes and symptoms during this transition period. On the other hand, most of these changes maybe experience progressively and not frequently abrupt, yet it may extend several years though. Symptoms of menopause usually do not require medical intervention, yet it is sensible to seek medical help to take care of the associated signs that may affect the woman's physical and psychological health brought by these symptoms of menopause onset.
When a woman starts to experience some manifestations of menopause, she is in the stage of pre menopausal. During this period onset of irregular menstrual cycle is the most common symptoms; it is a result of reproductive hormonal changes. From a regular day of menstruation, a woman may notice that her the menstrual cycle changes to a longer or a shorter period. Generally, menstruation can take place in a period of 2 to 3 weeks and in few cases, it may not happen for 5 to 6 weeks long though. There are few cases that a woman may have signs of menstruation but she may not menstruate. The amount of blood flow during menstruation may also alter. It can either be inadequate or heavy; it depends on the changes that the body may have come.
Following an irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes are experience which can help out to distinguish the beginning of menopause. Hot flash is a quick sensation of warm or strong heat, that stretch out to various parts of the body, mainly the head, face and chest. During a hot flash situation, the woman may experience a swift sweating and blushing and later chilling. This condition may be experienced in the first two years after the onset of menopause. These symptoms of menopause may be felt for over a period of time; however, it may reduce gradually in time. But there are a few women who may experience hot flashes for longer years after menopause though. This hot flash is one of the symptoms of menopause that most women may need medical attention to prevent further problem.
Some women are emotionally affected when menopause manifestations start; considering that it is a decrease of estrogen and progesterone in their system; and most likely this triggers their strong emotional responses such as depression, resentment, bad tempers or pleasure. As a result they see themselves erratic and changeable, thus finding it as disturbing and seems to be given importance and should not be taken for granted.
It is a truth though, that there are a few women who may hardly manifest any symptoms of menopause other than the cessation of menstrual periods. Majority of women will experience some other symptoms. These symptoms of menopause may come and go, and more so it improves as the process of menopause progresses. While it is true that menopause is commonly associated to cessation of menstruation, it is also defined as the period between the beginning and end of symptoms. A woman whose menstrual period has ceased for 1 year or longer is considered to be at her post menopausal. Menopause is normally considered to include the pre menopausal and post menopausal stage; consider some other manifestations or symptoms of menopause that normally progresses as menopause begins like: mood swings or altered sexual behavior due to decrease in libido, sleep trouble or insomnia, swift, irregular pulses or palpitations, vaginal itching, sore joint or muscle pain, headache, lack of focus and memory gap, urinary changes and other unusual, irregular episodes that may conceivably experience.
Looking positively to this cycle of women's life may help them and to the people around them understand what they are going through, which might be useful in coping up with the situation. There are different changes that will be experience during this stage and quite a lot may involve health issues. Consequently, early detection may help prevent any complication. Be stiff in looking for health assistance from health professionals and make this event in a woman's life a great and better experience in facing another phase of life.
Symptoms Menopause NJ
Find out more about the symptoms of menopause and how it effects women. Symptoms Menopause NJ

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Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Overcoming Menopause: Hormone Replacement Therapy Vs Natural Programs

It is no wonder that more women and men of menopause/andropause age are now seeking after holistic programs based largely on traditional Eastern medicine. There is a lack of trust in the limited treatment options offered through modern Western medicine. The concept of aging gracefully and just accepting the natural changes in the body with time are no longer being adhered to happily. Patients are seeking better options when they do not like what their doctor offers them.The question is whether a natural program, often resting on supplements rather than synthetic hormones, can be just as effective as hormone replacement therapy. The answer may be quite surprising, but it is yes. Many people have actually relieved all of their menopause symptoms and entered the latter part of their life feeling better than ever.The trick is to find the right holistic program. The focus must be on naturally replenishing and balancing hormones inside the body. Hormone replacement therapy replaces hormones with synthetic products that aren't natural to the human body. Holistic programs use supplements and a variety of other proven strategies to help the body replace those hormones on its own. This means real hormones natural to the body, rather than synthetic knockoffs.
Not everyone will go for these holistic programs, but there are some categories of female menopause sufferers who will benefit tremendously from them. This primarily includes those who are willing to work with their natural lifestyles and make changes for the betterment of their future. Those who want super fast results without having to work for it, may prefer to go with treating individual symptoms or replacing hormones.
Manufacturing them naturally takes a bit more effort, but in the end it can be well worth the effort for those who give it a try. When you read the experiences of those going through holistic programs with those going through hormone replacement therapy, those on the holistic programs tend to report feeling better than those replacing their hormones. This makes a pretty good case for trying holistic programs.
In the end, overcoming menopause is never a pleasant experience. Everyone must go through it at some point or another, but very few enjoy the process. Holistic programs are worth trying before the expense and time is devoted to hormone replacement therapy. Those who do not respond well to replacement programs may also want to give the natural programs a try to see if they don't have a better, more responsive, experience.
Get your free copy of the natural health blueprint http://www.livelonghealthreviews.com/

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Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Relief for Menopause Hot Flashes

At 41 years of age, I was put into surgical menopause due to a rare type of tumor that presented as being cancerous. I had my ovaries, uterus and cervix removed. I had read about the symptoms I was going to have to deal with, and had actually begun to experience some of the symptoms of premenopausal, and seemed to be managing just fine, so how much worse could it be?I will always remember that first moment after surgery, and instantly feeling that I was lacking estrogen. The hot flashes were immediate and intense! They would come out of no where, with no warning, and make me feel as if someone started a fire a little too close to me.
Due to the fact that I had to wait for the biopsy results, I couldn't start estrogen replacement therapy, so I had no choice but to just deal with it. My only relief was a fan and a light nightie, heaven forbid if anyone put a blanket on me! Having to wait to start the therapy, as well as try to manage the symptoms, really began to take a toll, and my patience was running thin to put it mildly!
Not only was I still dealing with the post surgery recovery, but the continued and increasing menopause symptoms. Mood swings, irritability and insomnia to name a few.
Night time had to be the worst when trying to fall asleep. Tired from the day because it now seemed that I lacked energy, I couldn't wait to get to bed. The restlessness though caused by the hot flashes made sleeping near impossible, or at least being able to sleep for more than a couple hours consistently. Then once asleep only to wake in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat soaked pajamas! Then the whole rigmarole of getting up, getting changed, possibly even having to change the bedding, which of course only led to feeling irritable and cranky in the morning from the lack of sleep. This was the vicious cycle that continued for months!
My children and spouse were of course on the receiving end of my moodiness and I knew I had to find a solution, or at the very least a way to manage the symptoms.
I have always believed that everything happens for a reason, even this surgery, and now I know why. It was a friend, (whom is now my business partner) that suggested I try sleeping on a sheepskin bed pad. At the time I thought she was crazy. Seriously, Wool? Let's just add some fuel to my already burning fire! How could sheepskin possibly help me? She went on to explain how sheepskin has this amazing ability to regulate body temperature, so you are always kept at a perfect temperature. The sheepskin will keep you cool if that is what you're needing. The sheepskin fibres also absorb moisture so your kept dry and comfortable.
Well to my amazement it actually worked! Like a welcome breeze! (I must of course give note here, that sheepskin is also incredibly soft and comfortable).
Since then I have wanted to spread the word about sheepskin and the health benefits it offers.
I hope anyone who is suffering from menopause symptoms will try sheepskin and get back to enjoying life.
http://www.holysheepskin.com/ offers an array of authentic sheepskin products.
We offer a full line of medical grade sheepskin, for the prevention and treatment of bed sores, as well as sheepskin pads for those needing comfort and support. At HolySheep Skin, we are passionate about the health benefits sheepskin offers, and want to share the knowledge we have gained, and continue to gain about those benefits. We offer articles that specifically address health concerns, and how sheepskin can aid.

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Monday, January 23, 2012

Transvaginal Mesh Surgery - Important Questions to Ask Your Doctor About This Surgery

One of the predominantly occurring pathological phenomenons in women is the loosening of their pelvic structures, due to increasing age, as a result of trauma and stretch applied to them during the process of child birth. This loosening of the pelvic supports can give rise to a host of symptoms that may justify surgery depending on the severity of the disease. However, before giving a decision in favor of an operation, there are a few questions that the patient needs to ask her doctor. Let's have a brief review of these essential queries.

Why am I being operated for the problem?
This should be the first question in a woman's mind as to how essential; rather inevitable it is for her to get operated. Does the severity of her disease justify her going under the knife? What are the consequences if she chooses against a surgery? The patient should know how severe her symptoms can go by not opting for surgery, and how important it is to repair a prolapsed organ to prevent further complications associated with it.

What are the hazards of the operation while on the operating table?
This again is one of the most important things as the patient should be told all about the anesthetic complications, infection risks, bleeding hazards and the possible risk of iatrogenic injury to the pelvic organs.

Will my existing morbidities affect the outcome of the surgery?
This area is very important to be discussed by the surgeon and the anesthetists themselves, however if they fail to mention, the patient should not be hesitant in asking about it herself. The presently known impact of co-morbidities on the surgical outcome is high. Diseases like hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, chronic bronchitis, asthma and allergies have strong influences on the patient's surgical profile and should be discussed thoroughly.

What are the possible side effects of the procedure?
This question should never be missed by the patient as it is essential to talk about the transvaginal mesh complications that can come along with the most popular modality; transvaginal mesh repair. The placement of the mesh can lead to a number of complications, the most important being infection. The patient should always ask necessary questions regarding the development, symptoms, treatment and prevention of the post operative infections.

What is the effectiveness of the transvaginal mesh?
Just like every operation, transvaginal mesh placement has its own effectiveness. The patient should ask about how effective the chosen mesh material, in providing needed strength, is? And how long will its beneficial effects last? As there is a wide assortment of the materials available, the patient should be given sufficient knowledge as to which would be the best choice for her and why.

How do I prevent against infections post operatively?
This is by far the most important information to have before and right after the surgery. As the infection rate is very high in the post operative days, the patient should have a sound knowledge of how to maintain her hygiene, how to keep the wound site clean and most importantly how to safeguard against infectious agents in the hospital setting.
If you or a family member experience serious or embarrassing complications after surgery for vaginal Hernia, Pelvic Organ Prolapse or Stress Urinary Incontinence, complete our patient intake form, and an expert and compassionate female case manger will contact you today!
The author is the webmaster for TheLawsuitNewsReport.com, Expert Legal Resources. For the People, by the People"

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Thursday, January 19, 2012

What Are the Effects of Menopause and Vaginal Dryness?

Many people do not like to speak about the effects of menopause and vaginal dryness, but the truth is, it will happen to nearly all women at some point and time in their lives and it is quite discomforting.Every woman that experiences menopause has their own different problems with it. Some of them have night sweats, weight gain and yes even vaginal dryness. Other effects could include, a headache, insomnia, a change in the sex drive (wanting less) and even mood swings.
There are pills which are prescribed by doctors and they can help you out a little bit. If night sweats are bothering you, wear lighter clothing to prevent sweating. If night sweats are unavoidable it may help to sleep on a towel to prevent excessive moisture on your body and bed. Don't be afraid to talk to friends or your doctor regarding your daily symptoms. Doctors may be able to prescribe some medical treatments to help deal with many of the menopausal symptoms including night sweats and dryness in the vaginal area.
There is also help for the mood swings and weight gain. Mood swings might happen due to the fact that all the changes are happening and hormone levels are fluxuating throughout the day. As for weight gain, exercise is the key. Try increasing your daily amount of exercise by 20-minutes to help offset symptoms. It sounds like a lot of extra time but remember exercise doesn't have to take place in a gym. It can be done anywhere, in most cases simply walking farther and longer during your daily activities will meet the goal.
There are pills to help improve your sex drive too. Although, a lot of women do experience a lower sex drive because of their dry experience. There are various lubricating gels on the market (even for those with sensitive skin) that can be used. These are safe during sex and help the woman to have no discomfort or dryness during sex.
Many department stores carry these gels. But a lot of women prefer buying them on the internet because it can be an embarrassing experience for many. There are prescription gels you can ask your doctor about. These are specifically for menopausal women. If you find you can not afford the prescription, some places have help paying for them and sometimes you may be able to get them cheaper at different places so make sure to check around.
Whether you're a woman who's about to enter menopause or a young woman who's body's not responding during your intimate moments this site can help. It's constantly adding new information and links for vaginal dryness, tightness and symptoms that cause pain during sex.
http://www.naturalvaginalubricant.com/
Intimacy is what keeps us connected and nothing should take away from that time or pleasure.
Carson Shay

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Monday, January 16, 2012

Perimenopause Treatment

A guide to the therapies available to treat symptoms of perimenopause.Perimenopause is a natural part of aging that all women go through. It is not a disease that can be prevented or cured. It is the stage at which our bodies produce less estrogen in preparation for menopause. This reduction is estrogen is responsible for the signs, symptoms and discomforts that we normally associate with being perimenopausal.
Perimenopause symptoms are experienced differently by every woman. Some experience symptoms in their 30s while others don't have it until their early 50s. Others bear with the symptoms for 10 years or more, while others complete the transition to menopause within 2 years. Some go through it with very little discomfort, while others may suffer debilitating pain that prevent them from doing the things they normally enjoy.
If you are suffering from moderate to severe symptoms of perimenopause, there are natural and medical treatments that you can consider to help alleviate your symptoms. Here are just some of them:
1. Hormone replacement therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) alleviates the symptoms of perimenopause by adding to our bodies' store of estrogen. Taking low dose pills has been shown t be effective in lessening, even eliminating night sweats, difficulty sleeping and in managing periods. It comes in many forms - low dose birth control pills, estrogen skin patches, vaginal cream, rings and gels.
HRT is not for everybody. There are serious risks associated with its use. The US FDA recommends taking it at the lowest dose and for the shortest period of time necessary. Before taking any medication, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider.
2. Bio Identical hormone replacement therapy
Bio Identical hormone replacement therapy makes use of estrogen that is derived from plants. Unlike traditional HRT, bio identical hormones are customized to your body's specific requirements.
No long term studies on the efficacy and safety of bio identical hormones have been conducted. Some believe that the risks associated with taking traditional HRT are also present in bio-identical hormones. Consult with a qualified naturopathic doctor or your healthcare provider before taking any medication.
3. Adjustment in your diet and lifestyle
The importance of eating right and exercising cannot be stressed enough. Often, by making changes and adjustments in your diet, you can drastically improve how your body copes with your fluctuating estrogen levels.
Exercise strengthens heart muscles, keeps osteoporosis at bay and improves your overall health. Limiting the intake of caffeine found in soda and coffee can help relieve hot flashes. Some women also find that there are certain foods that trigger hot flashes. By being sensitive to your body's reaction, you can identify these foods and lessen your intake of them.
4. Alternative treatments
While not all herbs purported to relieve symptoms of perimenopause have been medically documented, a lot of women swear to their efficacy. Women are also keen to try these natural and alternative treatments because they carry lesser risk of side effects. Some of the more popular ones include black cohosh, St. John's wort, tofu and primrose oil.
If you are one of the many women who suffer severe and debilitating symptoms of perimenopause, it can seem like an eternity since you felt like yourself. Whatever option you choose to manage the symptoms of perimenopause, it's important that you do your own research and consult with a qualified homeopathic doctor or healthcare provider.
As you can see, there are many options for perimenopause treatment. You don't have to suffer alone, nor do you have to suffer at all! Visit Perimenopause Answers now and find a treatment method that works for you!

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Saturday, January 14, 2012

What Is The Cause Of Menopause?

Not to be cute, but there is a short and a long answer to the question "What causes menopause?" Let me give the short answer first, and then backtrack to the long answer. In short, the cause of menopause is dropping levels of hormones released from the ovaries. Now for the longer answer.
Brain management of female hormones and the monthly cycle
These hormones, progesterone and estrogen form one-half of a feedback loop between the ovaries and the brain. The brain stimulates ovarian secretion of estrogen through the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. It stimulates the release of progesterone from the ovaries with luteinizing hormone (LH), also from the pituitary gland. These four hormones, originating from the ovaries and the brain via the pituitary gland, form a communication network that regulates the monthly cycle of reproduction. The rhythmic rise and fall of these hormone levels underlies the rhythm of the reproductive cycle.
Estrogen release at the beginning of each menstrual cycle, under the guidance of FSH, stimulates the build up of the lining of the uterus, in preparation for implantation of a fertilized egg. In the middle of the menstrual cycle a surge of luteinizing hormone from the pituitary stimulates release of an egg. LH also stimulates the secretion of progesterone which maintains the uterine lining.
Eventually the ovaries stop responding to the stimulation of the brain. The rhythmic dance between the brain and ovaries then comes to a halt, and the monthly cycle also stops. This change is gradual rather than abrupt. The ovarian production of estrogen and progesterone declines gradually over a period of years. During this transition period the brain does its best to keep estrogen and progesterone levels up by releasing more FSH and LH, respectively. The combination of lagging estrogen and progesterone and higher than normal FSH and LH are responsible for the symptoms of premenopause and perimenopause like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irritability, fatigue and more.

Why the monthly cycle stops
Every girl who is born has a fixed number of eggs in their ovaries. The number drops over the next decade and a half, to about three hundred thousand. Then each month a number of eggs mature and one is released. At the same time, many eggs deteriorate. So gradually the number of eggs continues to diminish.
Estrogen is secreted from the follicle that holds the egg while it matures. After the egg is released, the follicle is transformed and begins to secrete progesterone. Eventually the number of follicles that mature each month begins to drop. And so does the amount of estrogen and progesterone being released from the ovaries. When the levels of estrogen and progesterone fall, the monthly cycle begins to falter and then stops altogether. That's menopause.

What causes menopause symptoms?
The sex hormones estrogen and progesterone impact many body organs other than the reproductive system (breasts, uterus, vagina). When the levels of these hormones begins to falter in perimenopause, one of the first symptoms is erratic menstrual periods, or lighter or heavier menstrual flows. Another very frequent complaint is hot flashes and sweats, which are experienced by 80-85% of American women as they transition through menopause. Hot flashes and night sweats are caused by a disruption of the brain center that monitors and regulates body temperature. Normally the brain monitors body temperature and keeps it within a specific range for our safety. Dropping estrogen and progesterone levels disrupt this system. The brain erroneously interprets normally safe variations in body temperature as dangerous, and makes heroic attempts to bring our temperature back to normal. Hot flashes and sweats are a strategy to cool the body down, bringing body temperature down. Remember when you were a kid and you had a fever? At some point the fever broke. It was when your brain decided you were too hot and stimulated the release of perspiration to cool you down. This is comparable to the sweats experienced after a hot flash.
Menopause complaints are largely the result of dropping estrogen levels. A good natural remedy is found in phytoestrogens. These are weakly estrogenic plant molecules found in food and herbs. Phytoestrogens provide a safe way to bridge the gap of dropping estrogen levels, to thereby relieve menopause related complaints.
To learn more about what causes menopause and natural remedies for menopause complaints such as hot flashes go to http://herbalmenopauseremedy.com/

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Wednesday, January 11, 2012

With Your Diet for Menopause, Let's Think Magnesium

Yes, mom was right to say "eat your vegetables". Magnesium is one reason why we should have had the dinner salad, instead of the Big Mac. Those dark green leafy vegetables do us a world of good because they are full of our friend, Magnesium.Who cares, you say? Well 80% of us are not getting enough of this major power house. And, raise your hand here, if the answer is yes, you drink coffee, or have an adult beverage on a semi regular basis? Both coffee and alcohol reduces the amount of Magnesium that can be absorbed. Our body can not even utilise what we are minimally, putting in it. Our typical diet is pretty lacking in veggies these days. How about helping ourselves out here, and consider adding healthy food options like vegetables. Let's start with a dark green salad, or a handful of sunflower seeds or almonds.
Magnesium is the most prolific mineral in the body. It is responsible for over 400 biochemical functions though out our day. Starting with:
1. This mineral is essential to our energy, as well as balancing our hormone health. While we have a drop of estrogen and progesterone, it works to the best of his ability to help us feel "normal" by assisting other hormones do their job.
2. Magnesium allows the absorption of calcium, and then helps transport and places that calcium where it is needed. With Magnesium's help, and building, our bones remain strong, and flexible.
3. This mineral also helps maintain a normal electrical flow of nerve impulses to the heart.
4. Magnesium helps with the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It also uses the other hormones, like cortisone, and testosterone to give us energy.
5. This mineral is also essential for the activation of B vitamins. These are the ones we spoke of earlier, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds.
6. And magnesium is essential for kidney and liver function. That is why, when we have a glass of wine, or a cocktail, we hinder the work that magnesium is doing.
7. This mineral also assists in the production of key brain chemicals.
So, what did we learn? I think it is pretty obvious that the 80% statistic is very telling, and we are not eating enough salads and vegetables. And we would probably feel much better if we kept that in mind. Help yourself, and your magnesium today, hear that little voice in your head that says, "Eat your veggies."
Corby Campbell Shields
Co-Author Menopause Master Plan
http://www.menopausemasterplan.com/

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