How to relieve the climacteric symptoms?
In the stage of life preceding the last menstrual period (menopause), profound hormonal changes may lead to unpleasant or even troublesome symptoms, such as:
- irritability,
- fatigue,
- depressive symptoms,
- headaches,
- hot flashes,
- difficulty concentrating,
- weight gain,
- insomnia,
- joint pain,
- heart palpitations.
The occurrence and severity of climacteric symptoms depend on several factors. First and foremost, they are associated with a decline in blood estrogen levels, as estrogens play a key role in pain modulation, mood regulation, energy levels, and overall physical and emotional well-being. The intensity of climacteric symptoms may also be influenced by individual personality traits, coping skills, the ability to adapt to life changes, self-esteem, and self-acceptance, as well as environmental and socio-economic factors.
The most important factors in relieving premenopausal symptoms include support from family and friends, understanding and accepting the changes taking place in the body, and redirecting attention toward engaging in hobbies, meaningful work, or helping others.
Overall well-being can also be significantly improved through regular physical activity. Daily movement is essential – whether in the form of strengthening exercises or long walks – which should be practiced consistently.
Physiology of fertility
Maturation of woman
Avoiding conception
Pregnancy planning
Fertility after childbirth
Fertility problems
Premenopause and menopause
Troublesome menopausal symptoms can often be alleviated effectively with commonly used herbs and supplements:
- yarrow may help relieve hot flashes and internal restlessness,
- sage (salvia) is recommended in cases of excessive sweating,
- evening primrose oil can reduce symptoms related to hormonal imbalance during the premenopausal period,
- magnesium and calcium supplementation (calcium combined with vitamin D) is important, particularly for the prevention of osteoporosis.
In cases of severe climacteric symptoms or advanced osteoporosis, individualized hormone therapy may be considered, but it must always be conducted under strict medical supervision.
It is worth noting that, according to most researchers, depression occurring during this period is not caused solely by hormonal changes. More often, it results from difficulty accepting bodily changes, as well as a lack of understanding and emotional support from one’s environment.
Scientific research also shows that the brain does not regress during this stage of life; on the contrary, it may remain fully capable of continued development and adaptation.