Menopausal Women: Struggles to Survive.
Though the end of the menstrual cycle may seem like a blessing to many minds, on the flip side, it can be a curse because it regulates the flow of many body systems that empower females with energy, glow, and health.
By Mirna Fahmy
Benefits vs. Disadvantages.
Before science emerged and flourished, the menstrual cycle was referred to as “monthly bleeding,” highlighting a sign of a female’s capability to become pregnant. Now, its prevalent information has created enough awareness of the pros and cons it can bring. The bleeding days typically last 3–7 days and may be accompanied by cramps, low back pain, fatigue, face acne, or discomfort. If the pain is severe, some females might miss days of work or school every month. Others experience such heavy bleeding that it exhausts them physically. And others might feel nothing and yet continue their daily routine with no interruptions.
Despite that, it still empowers with sheer blessings and energy. Menstruation is associated with an increase in antibody production and enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections. Increasing metabolism, whereas women can have more control over their weight, especially in decreasing it, is an undeniable gem. It can also promote self-reflection, awareness, and mood management.
Power and glow are fading away.
Menstruation typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 16 and ceases between the ages of 45 and 50. The duration that it stops is labelled as “menopause.” The menopausal transition affects each woman uniquely and in various ways. The body begins to use energy differently, fat cells change, and women may gain weight more easily. Females might experience changes in their bones, heart health, body shape, composition, or physical function.
One of the biggest symptoms menopausal women can encounter is “hot flashes” or “flushes.”. About 75% of all women have these sudden, brief, periodic increases in their body temperature. Usually hot flashes start before a woman’s last period. For 80% of women, hot flashes occur for 2 years or less. Women can also feel anxiety, mood swings, and brain fog. Unfortunately, menopause symptoms can have a big impact on your life, including relationships and work.
Source: National Institute on Aging, John Hopkins Medicine, NHS.uk
No time to give up. Stand still and enjoy life.
Many menopausal women think it is the end of their lives because they no longer shine, move on, and take care of themselves as efficiently as they were when they had their menstrual cycle. In Judy, Judy, Judy, a documentary directed by Jessica McGaugh, it is depicted how a menopausal woman and her cat can be tough because of her extreme mood swings. She views surviving each day as a victory. As much as it is a shame for some women to talk about their menstrual cycle, the same can happen to those with menopause.
However, there are hacks to still enjoy a good, healthy life. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial by eating a well-balanced diet while avoiding caffeine and alcohol and exercising regularly. It is important for women to inject themselves with support and encouragement and plug themselves with work or activity where they find themselves. It is better to be optimistic about the future rather than thinking about how good things used to be.
Source: Health Line, National Council on Aging, NHS.uk
Problems and steps taken towards an action for a change.
A survey by Gennev found that 99% of women in this stage of life do not receive menopause benefits at work, leading to missed promotions and career backlash. In the UK, 14 million working days are lost annually due to menopause and perimenopause, with 1 in 10 women experiencing menopausal symptoms leaving their roles in 2022. The Mayo Clinic report emphasizes the need for improved medical treatment and a supportive workplace environment. The UK Parliament’s Women and Equalities Committee’s inquiry and businesses’ efforts to provide flexible working arrangements and dedicated menopause policies are promoting positive change.
Source: Time, World Economic Forum,
“So many women I’ve talked to see menopause as an ending. I’ve discovered that this is your moment to reinvent yourself after years of focusing on the needs of everyone else.”
–Oprah Winfrey, American host and television producer
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