Firstly I just want to let you know that I haven’t officially gone through the Menopause so I can’t speak on the full experience of it yet. However having PCOS, I’m really aware of hormone health and my body, when it’s struggling and when I’m hormonally imbalanced.

My experience so far…

Over the course of a good few months I’ve been feeling really off.  My periods have been all over the place as well as my sleep too (these go hand in hand for me). So it pushed me into buying a cheap Asda menopause test recently.

The test was positive! I was a bit shocked and confused as I am only 34.

Did you know symptoms and the process can start as young as 30? I immediately got a doctor’s appointment to follow this up.

Now I know the NHS is spread pretty thin at the moment. My hormone issues aren’t really at the top of their list BUT no woman should be dismissed based on the issue of something not being life threatening. It can lead to pretty serious health issues having an imbalance in the body. It’s definitely something that is not spoken about enough. It’s real and we have to deal with it and no one should suffer in silence.

Hormone imbalance can cause:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irrational thinking
• Joint issues
• Weight gain

For me this area is something I think needs more focus. It’s not talked about enough, we’re not educated to understand it and we’re often left confused and alone. That is definitely not ok and then we wonder why our mental health has dipped?

Now going back to the positive menopause test (we’re still going through some tests btw on this). I’ve been told my bloods look good and nothing has been picked up so we’re doing more tests and am hoping to get to the bottom of it.

You know when your body isn’t right.

How these tests work is by looking at your FSH levels. Without getting too scientific this is the hormone responsible to help reproduction. Although high levels may indicate perimenopause or menopause, it’s important to remember that these tests are designed to measure FSH levels, not to provide a diagnosis.

So many factors can affect the levels of hormones. In my opinion when looking into female health not one test can determine anything. You need to look at the overall picture over a number of weeks or months. I was told for years I didn’t have PCOS until I’d had various tests and seen a number of specialists in the field.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive years. While every woman’s experience with menopause is unique, it is essential to understand the changes that occur during this period and how to maintain optimal health and wellbeing.

In this blog, I will explore various aspects of female health during menopause and provide practical tips to navigate this transformative journey.

Understanding Menopause:

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and is characterised by the cessation of menstruation. It is caused by hormonal fluctuations, specifically a decline in oestrogen and progesterone production. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness and changes in libido.

Prioritising Self-Care:

During menopause, it is crucial to prioritise self-care to maintain overall wellbeing. This includes adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet and stress management techniques like meditation or mindfulness. Regular physical activity not only helps to alleviate menopause symptoms but also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and weight gain.

Nutrition and Menopause:

Diet plays a vital role in managing menopause symptoms and supporting overall health. Focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Incorporate foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Also, limit caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods, as they can trigger hot flashes and disrupt sleep patterns.

Managing Menopause Symptoms:

Various strategies can help alleviate common menopausal symptoms. For hot flashes and night sweats, dress in layers, use fans and avoid triggers like spicy foods or hot beverages. Maintain a cool and comfortable sleep environment by using lightweight bedding and breathable fabrics. For vaginal dryness and discomfort, consider using water-based lubricants or oestrogen-based vaginal creams after consulting with your doctor.

Seeking Support and Professional Guidance:

Menopause can be a challenging time for many women, both physically and emotionally. Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who can offer understanding and empathy. Additionally, consider seeking professional guidance from healthcare providers, such as gynaecologists or menopause specialists, who can provide personalised advice, prescribe hormone therapy if needed and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life, and while it may come with its challenges, it also presents an opportunity for personal growth and self-care. By understanding menopause, prioritising self-care, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support, women can navigate this transitional phase with grace and embrace the journey towards optimal female health and wellbeing.

Remember, every woman’s experience with Menopause is unique, so it’s essential to listen to your body, be patient with yourself, and make choices that align with your individual needs and preferences.

Natalie Bhangal is a personal trainer who has a passion for health, fitness and strength training. She trains beginners, athletes, pregnant and postnatal women, those with injuries and injury prone clients. For more information email natalie@graftfitness.co.uk

BRAND NEW – My new menopause pack is available to buy here. An amazing downloadable information pack for Menopausal Women giving you all you need to know about menopause, exercise and nutrition.