Entering menopause is a singular experience in a woman’s life. While the physiological changes during menopause affect every woman differently, it can be a challenging and transitional period for most.
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive cycle. You are said to be menopausal once 12 months have passed since your last menstrual cycle, and this usually occurs at around 45-55 years of age. Once you reach menopause, you cannot get pregnant.
A woman’s hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) fluctuate during perimenopause and menopause, causing mood swings, hot flashes, anxiety, increased stress levels, and at times, depression. However, remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Many women find that their postmenopausal years are sometimes the most carefree and transformational ones in their lives.
Menopause is an important natural phase in your life, and you should consider seeking professional help if you find yourself emotionally overwhelmed or depressed at any time. Seek your doctor’s advice to treat menopausal symptoms and make this transition as stress-free as modern medicine allows.
This period should be seen as a time for renewal and rediscovery, as there is much to look forward to post-menopause. Here are a few perks of entering menopause and why women should welcome this change.
The end of your menstrual cycle means that you can bid adieu to sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups once and for all. No more keeping an eye on your menstrual calendar or being sufficiently prepared for your period to show up at that time every month.
Another upside is the liberation from PMS (premenstrual syndrome) menstrual syndrome) that many women experience to varying degrees for about a week before and during their period. That means no more irritability, breast tenderness, headaches, food cravings, and bloating!
You will also no longer have to worry about leakage and stains. And it’s definitely good news for women who experience heavy bleeding or menstrual cramps during their periods, especially if they’ve had to restrict their movements as a result.
Related: How to Know Menopause is Around the Corner?
Enjoy Sex Like Never Before
While menopause marks the end of a woman’s fertility, it also marks the end of the need to use birth control measures. Without ovulation, a woman cannot get pregnant. For many women, menopause begins a whole new world of sex without the need to worry about pregnancy, which can be freeing. With the right approach, you and your partner can find new ways of intimacy.
The hormonal changes post-menopause can be different for every woman – some women experience decreased sex drive while for others, it increases. For women who experience vaginal dryness due to hormonal changes, alternative means of lubrication can provide pleasurable intercourse. Whatever your worries about your sexual health and sex life, be sure to address them with help from your health practitioner.
Related: Redefining Sex and the Modern Woman
Focus on Health & Exercise
Menopause is associated with the age-old stereotype of a “grumpy old woman.” Don’t buy into it! This is the best time to funnel all your efforts into getting healthy and fit without the need to take a break from your fitness routine.
Take the effort to understand the changes in your body and figure out a lifestyle, food, and workout routine that puts your well-being first! Many women are able to get themselves in the best shape of their lives post-menopause with the right mindset and timely professional help.
Related: Menopause Induced Insomnia? Try These 5 Things For Improved Sleep
Indulge in Leisure and Travel
This is probably the best time to take a step back and start crossing off items on your to-do list. Travel to places you’ve always wanted to, learn new skills and do the things you’ve kept on hold. Take some time to reconnect with yourself and reacquaint yourself with your interests and hobbies. It will help build a sound foundation for the future.
Many women find that after the unpredictable physical and emotional changes during perimenopause and menopause, their energy levels actually increase and stabilise post-menopause!
A Fresh Outlook on Life
The age-old stereotypes around menopause cause many women to look at this period with fear and anxiety. However, you can take control of your life and turn this into a life-affirming experience by arming yourself with the right knowledge regarding the changes in your body and on how to address any challenges that come up.
Don’t hesitate to seek help and support whenever you need it – whether from your friends, family, or a medical practitioner. Focusing on your health and fitness and keeping your eyes to the future can help you turn this into a positive experience.
This can be the best time to enjoy your freedom, so be sure to make the most of it and begin the next stage of your life in a more meaningful and exciting way.
What according to you is the best perk of being on menopause?
Let us know in the comments below.
