The menopause is not a disease or illness but a natural stage in a woman’s life when she stops having menstrual periods. This usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55 – which means most women can expect some 30 years of post-menopausal life. For some this is even longer, as early menopause occurs before the age of 40 in approximately 5% of women.

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The perimenopause or menopausal transition refers to period before the menopause. It may be when you first start to experience menopausal symptoms due to hormone changes but are still having periods. For some women the perimenopause may only last a few months but for others it can be several years.  During this time your hormones are fluctuating and changes in your oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels can cause profound changes in a woman's body and lead to some fairly miserable symptoms including: 

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• Physical aches and pains

• Reduction in bone density, strength and balance

• Weight gain

• Hot flashes

• Insomnia and depressed mood

• Pelvic floor muscle weakness

• Urinary and faecal incontinence

• Pelvic organ prolapse

• Painful intercourse

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These symptoms can persist as you age if you don’t address them as early as possible. Luckily though these days there is far more information and support to effectively manage these problems than ever before.  Women's Health Physios are specialists in treating and relieving these issues. We work closely with GP’s, Gynaecologists, personal trainers, nutritionists and psychologists to ensure you are as prepared as possible before you hit the menopause, and progress through this stage in life feeling supported and healthy!

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Book an appointment today and get on top of these symptoms, before they get on top of you!

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