Hot flashes, sleep issues, weight gain — and a sex life that's healthy

A million jokes have been made about menopause.

But what about the signs and symptoms?

When you have them, it's not that hilarious.

Menopause is a normal process, and some women look forward to it. (There will be no more periods!) However, if you're going through it right now, you're aware that it can also produce hot flashes and night sweats, as well as a decrease in sex drive. You can also gain a few obstinate extra pounds.

What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Symptoms such as irregular periods and hot flashes appear in most women a few years before their last menstruation. Perimenopause is the term for this period. “Many women start perimenopause in their mid-40s, but some skip it and go straight to menopause,” says Geisinger OBGYN Dr. Juan Manuel Arreguin.

It's usual for your menstrual cycles to become irregular during perimenopause: they may be late, you may miss one (or several), and they may become heavier or lighter.

You may believe your body is telling you it's too late in life to start a family. However, don't throw away your birth control just yet. Getting pregnant during perimenopause is still feasible.

You don't hit real menopause until you've been without a period for 12 months. Then you can put your contraception away. Just make sure you wait the entire year.

What are some of the signs and symptoms of menopause?

Menopause symptoms differ from one woman to the next. However, the following are some common signs and symptoms:

Night sweats or hot flashes

Insomnia or sleeping problems

Reduced sex drive and vaginal dryness

gaining weight

Changes in mood, such as anxiety and depression

Urinary incontinence is a symptom of urinary incontinence.

Menopause symptoms can be alleviated in a variety of ways.

If your symptoms are mild or moderate, home remedies and lifestyle adjustments may be all you need. However, if your symptoms are severe, you should seek medical help.

“Medical treatment for menopause isn't necessary for most women,” says Dr. Arreguin. “However, there are several things you may do at home to assist alleviate some of the symptoms.”

Here are a few of Dr. Arreguin's recommendations:

Reduce nocturnal sweats and hot flashes

If you suffer from hot flashes and night sweats (as do the majority of women), you can relieve them by doing the following:

To relieve any stress during the day, establish a peaceful nightly practice, such as daily meditation or breathing exercises.

I'm dressed in loose, light pajamas.

Using a bedside fan or lowering your thermostat at night.

Excessive alcohol, caffeine, and/or spicy meals should be avoided. If you smoke, 4 this is an excellent moment to quit.

Investing in a cooling blanket or mattress pad.

Dr. Arreguin believes that taking supplements like black cohosh and evening primrose capsules or oils can help certain ladies. “However, some supplements may mix with other prescriptions, so consult your doctor before taking any supplements.”

Contact your doctor if your hot flashes and night sweats are severe and preventing you from getting a decent night's sleep. Dr. Arreguin says, "Hormone replacement treatment can be an excellent alternative for women having severe menopause symptoms."

Diet and exercise can help you lose weight (and more).

As we get older, our metabolism slows down, and hormone loss during menopause can contribute to this. Focus on eating a nutritious diet and doing some exercise to help you lose weight.

Physical activity not only aids in weight loss and maintenance, but it also acts as a stress reliever, improving your attitude, sleep, and energy levels. “To begin, go for a 20- to 30-minute brisk walk every day,” suggests Dr. Arreguin.

If you're having problems with urine incontinence, attempt Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor. However, as with most exercise programs, the benefit may fade over time. If your symptoms don't improve, make an appointment with your doctor.

When it comes to your diet, keep the following in mind:

Lean proteins, fruits, veggies, and whole grains are all good choices.

Sugars added to soft drinks, juices, and baked foods should be avoided.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Consume fewer alcoholic beverages.

Dr. Arreguin recommends speaking with your doctor to see if supplements are good for you. “Calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium supplements, for example, can help protect your bones while also improving your sleep.”

Make sex more pleasurable.

Menopause can induce vaginal dryness and a lack of libido (or sex desire), but it doesn't have to stop you from having fun.

Dr. Arreguin recommends using an over-the-counter lubricant and/or a vaginal moisturizer to make sex more comfortable. “Talk to your doctor about if topical estrogen is good for you if your vaginal dryness is bothering you.”

Menopause symptoms can usually be treated without the use of medication. Regular checkups and prescribed health checks are still required. “Ask your doctor for help if you're experiencing any new or worsening symptoms,” Dr. Arreguin advises.