Menopause is referred to as the cessation of menstruation for 12 months. For women, the practical translation would be no more monthly periods and pregnancies.

Perimenopause refers to the menopausal transition period. Postmenopause, in contrast, involves the entire period following the last menstruation.

Though it may sound likeheaven, the transition is anything but simple. For starters, menopause is a process and not an overnight occurrence. The average age in which menopause begins varies greatly for each woman, ranging from as early as 30s to as late as 60s.

How can I tell?

The extent and gravity of the symptoms will differ immensely among women. Some are lucky enough to endure only a few while the others undergo multiple psychological and physical symptoms.

Irregular Vaginal Bleeding

  • Little or excessive bleeding
  • Menstruation occurs more frequently or get farther apart

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

  • Warm feeling spreading throughout the body, especially the chest and head
  • Perspiration

Vaginal Symptoms

  • Vaginal dryness, irritation, itching or pain during intercourse

Urinary Symptoms

  • Higher risk for urinary tract infection or urinary incontinence

Others

  • Mood swings, forgetfulness, weight gain or wrinkles

What Can I Do?

Healthy herbs can allay these symptoms. These herbs for health are certainly worth a shot.

Soy and Isoflavones

  • 50 g of soy protein daily relieves night sweats and hot flashes

St. John’s Wort

  • Less than 1.2 mg daily disperses mild to moderate depression

Black cohosh

  • 250 mg 2-4 times daily remedies night sweats, hot flashes and muscle cramping

Chaste tree

  • 300-600 mg daily eases depression

Saw palmetto

  • 1,000-2,000 mg daily treats urinary tract infection or urinary incontinence

Shepherd’s purse

  • 500 mg daily helps with irregular bleeding or spotting

Flaxseed

  • 1-2 tbsp daily of ground flaxseed aids with hormone metabolism

These details are just the tip of the iceberg. When women and hormones are involved, it’s sometimes more complex than it seems. Hopefully, these healthy herbs may help manage your menopause symptoms.

Lastly, don’t forget to consult your doctor. They know best.

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