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Doctors4U®
acknowledges
that information is constantly changing so remember these articles
are placed here for information only and we urge all visitors
to our sites to seek the advice of their own qualified Health
Professional.
Here you will find articles as well as direct links to other Web
sites on various health matters for women.
Sexual Intercourse
During Pregnancy
Sexual intercourse can continue normally until the last month of pregnancy,
unless a woman has been counseled otherwise. If there is vaginal bleeding
or a suspected leak from the bag of waters, intercourse should be
discontinued until her doctor has checked the woman.
It is very common to experience some brief abdominal cramping after
intercourse. If this continues or worsens over a 1-hour period, a
woman should contact her doctor, since it is possible that the cervix
may be dilating. Semen contains prostaglandin's, which can initiate
uterine contractions.
Especially in the last months, it is important to avoid excessive
pressure on the abdomen. Couples should adopt intercourse positions
that are comfortable as well as satisfying.
Partners may find that their appetite for sexual relations changes
in response to emotional and physical events of pregnancy. Some may
desire sexual intimacy more frequently than before, others less often.
If there is a conflict, open and honest communication and understanding
of the other's needs will help work out the problem
Pill for fewer periods approved in US
AP - The first birth control pill specially designed to reduce the frequency
of women's periods - from once a month to four times a year - has been
approved by the US government.
Hence the name: Seasonale.
The pills aren't a new chemical. They contain the same combination of
low-dose oestrogen and progestin found in many oral contraceptives.Nor
is the idea of menstrual suppression new.
For decades, many doctors have told women how they can skip a period
by continually taking the active birth-control pills in each month's
supply and ignoring the week of dummy pills in each packet.
But Seasonale promises to make the option a little more convenient,
with packaging that gives women 12 straight weeks of active pills and
then a week of dummy pills for their period.
The Food and Drug Administration's approval means menstrual suppression
could become more common in the US, as Seasonale's advertising alerts
women to the option.
Seasonale isn't perfect, the FDA cautioned. While women have fewer scheduled
periods, studies show Seasonale users have about twice the risk of unexpected
"breakthrough" bleeding between periods as woman taking conventional
monthly cycle pills, especially in the first few cycles of use.
Also, 7.7 per cent of Seasonale users dropped out of studies of the
drug citing unacceptable bleeding, compared with 1.8 per cent of women
taking conventional monthly pills.
Some Seasonale users had so much breakthrough bleeding that their total
days of bleeding over a year were no less with the new drug than with
regular pills, FDA said.
The agency ordered that Seasonale's label state that women must weigh
that inconvenience against fewer regular periods. "Each woman will
respond to this product somewhat differently," said FDA's Dr Scott
Monroe. "Some will find they respond entirely as the product was
designed to function, and others will have increased intermenstrual
bleeding to the extent that they choose not to continue with the product."
Maker Barr Laboratories plans to have prescription - only Seasonale
in pharmacies in the United States by November to compete with other
brand-name oral contraceptives, which sell for roughly $US$1 ($A1.55)
a pill. Generic versions can cost half that amount in the US.
Seasonale also may be attractive to women who experience severe cramping,
heavy bleeding and other menstrual-related symptoms, a number Barr estimates
at 2.5 million in the United States. But the National Women's Health
Network says some Seasonale proponents falsely imply that limiting menstruation
is generally healthier, a message the consumer group calls particularly
unwise for young girls. "We already have a lot of shame and stigma
in this society about menstruation," cautions the network's Cynthia
Pearson, who has asked Barr to ensure that Seasonale ads don't convey
that impression.
During the menstrual cycle, fluctuations in oestrogen signal the uterine
lining, or endometrium, to thicken in preparation for nourishing an
embryo. If pregnancy doesn't occur, that excess lining is sloughed off,
accompanied by bleeding.
The big safety question is whether four periods a year are enough to
allow the uterus to shed any tissue that builds up.
A study by Eastern Virginia Medical School, which developed the three-month
pill regimen, shows they are. It tracked 682 women taking either Seasonale
or regular monthly pills for a year. Seasonale proved equally effective
at preventing pregnancy.
Side effects, too, were similar with the exception of breakthrough bleeding,
which did decrease with each cycle of Seasonale use.
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New
technology boosts IVF success
A Sydney
woman is the first in the world to use a ground-breaking procedure which
promises to make IVF simpler and less stressful. Known as the ACE baby
pen, it will allow people to administer hormone shots themselves, and
doctors are confident the new system will improve the chances of pregnancy.
The new IVF technology - the GONAL-f Pen - will simplify the procedure
of daily injections by providing couples an easy four-step process because
it is fully portable and may be kept at room instead of being refrigerated.
For many Australian couples, like Martine and Tim Reid, both aged 31,
fertility problems meant they'd never conceive naturally. So the couple
turned to IVF, which involves hormone injections to stimulate the production
of eggs. But those daily injections were a major stumbling block for
Martine and Tim.
"The first night Martine was to inject herself I had to give her
the injection, and it was hard for me to do!" explained Tim.
As a result, Martine didn't hesitate to become first person in the world
to use the new pre-filled pen injection. Now, there's no mixing of hormone
powders and fluid into an old-style syringe. Instead, the pen has pre-mixed
doses which are just dialled up. It's tiny, simple, and eliminates the
fear factor.
"This
pen is fantastic, I didn't even feel it going in, which for me is a
huge thing," said Martine.
The GONAL-f Pen is the first pre-filled and ready-to-use fertility pen
containing recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (r-hFSH).
This hormone is widely used for the stimulation of egg production in
women with fertility problems.
It's been dubbed the ACE baby pen because of its accuracy, consistency
and ease of use. Doctors believe decreasing the stress will also help
improve pregnancy rates.
"The husbands sometimes faint, the women sometimes faint just thinking
about injections," said Dr Ric Gordon, IVF Australia." They
have to come in every single day for injections to have the nurse give
it to them. This way, they can easily give to themselves and it will
be so much more convenient,"
The use of IVF, a technology of which Australia was one of the pioneers,
is on the rise, particularly as couples delay starting a family. The
number of IVF treatment cycles in Australia has increased by approximately
80 percent since 1992. During 2001 over 11,000 IVF cycles were performed
in this country.
Nearly two out of every 100 Australian babies born today are the result
of IVF. With one in six Australians suffering infertility, the good
news is the pen will be available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
to women attending fertility clinics from March 1, 2004.
Web Link
www.fertility.com/australia
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to top
IVF:
fast facts
· IVF is a method where eggs, produced by administering fertility
hormones, are collected from the women's body and fertilised with sperm
in vitro (in a laboratory). Embryos that result from this are transferred
by catheter into the uterus between two and five days later.
· Australian experts have been at the forefront of IVF development.
The first IVF treatment in Australia was performed in 1979, followed
by the first Australian-born IVF baby in 1980.
· Since 1992 there has been an approximate 80 percent increase
in the number of assisted conception treatment cycles that take place
each year.
· From 1991 to 2000 there were a total of 18,614 IVF pregnancies,
resulting in the birth of 17,004 IVF infants.
· In 2001 there were 11,338 IVF transfer cycles performed in
Australia.
· When all techniques for assisted conception are included together
(IVF, GIFT, ICSI) the viable pregnancy rate has increased from 13 per
100 transfer cycles in 1992 to 20.6 in 2001.
· In 2000 about 72.3 percent of all women being treated with
assisted conception were aged 30-39 years. Women seeking treatment were
on average 4.6 years older than all women giving birth in Australia
in 2000.
· Women under 35, who try IVF, have on average a 25 percent chance
of conceiving and having a baby. Some clinics achieve even better results.
· An IVF treatment averages $2455 a procedure, after Medicare
and hospital costs. In most circumstances Medicare covers a third of
the cost, private health insurance covers another third and patients
pay the remainder.
A special
thank you to: National Nine News for this article.
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Fat'
pill: is it the answer to obesity?
20 October 2003
Australian
scientists are on the verge of discovering the world's first 'fat' pill,
which they're hoping will improve our waistlines and overall wellbeing.
While the manufacturers say it could be more than four years until it's
available, they're calling for volunteers to take part in an extensive
trial in an effort to determine its safety and effectiveness. ACA reports.
Known
as the Metabolic Fat Pill, or AOD9604, this is not a synthetic appetite
suppressant or gastro-inhibitor. Instead, scientists have isolated a
naturally occurring molecule that blocks and metabolically burns fat.
Already proven to work in obese laboratory animals, the manufacturers,
Metabolic Pharmaceuticals, are now focusing on its fourth human trial
and they're looking for volunteers to be 'fat' pill test pilots.
According
to Dr Gary Wittert, the trial's principal independent investigator,
volunteers need to meet certain criteria.
"We're
looking for people between the ages of 30 and 65," he says. "They
need to be significantly overweight - that is to have a body mass index
of greater than 35."
People
like 30-year-old Trent Ball, a 155 kilo Melbourne taxi driver, who reckons
he's outgrown his unhealthy relationship with food and is ready for
a change.
"My
biggest problem is not what I eat, it's how much I eat," he says.
Being
overweight, however, is not the only prerequisite, says Dr Wittert.
"People
need to be otherwise healthy; they must not have other diseases - so
high blood pressure, diabetes or anything - and they must not be taking
any medication," he says.
Once recruited,
300 Australian volunteers fitting that description will come under Dr
Gary Witterts' watchful eye. He'll coordinate simultaneous tests in
five different states over the next three months.
For volunteer
and 53-year-old Adelaide mum Sue Tonkin, she's hoping for a miracle.
"I've
tried Weight Watchers, I've tried the carbohydrate diet - that scared
me a bit all the fat in that one," she says. "I've tried everything,
I suppose a bit of willpower would help but it hasn't helped so far."
But Trent
is taking a more realistic approach.
"[For]
a lot of people who are obese or overweight, it's about getting your
lifestyle right, getting your head right and getting your attitude right,"
he says.
And that's
exactly the sort of attitude the manufacturers are looking for because
not all the volunteers will be asked to swallow the real thing.
"There
is a one in six chance of being on the drug if you're in the trial,"
says Dr Wittert. "One sixth of people will be taking a placebo
tablet."
If all
goes according to plan, the manufacturers' claim those actually taking
the pill will lose half a kilo a week and sustain that weight loss for
the entire three-month trial. Sue's desperate to lose 30 kilos and Trent's
target is 50 kilos, so both are champing at the bit to get started.
According
to Metabolic Pharmaceuticals Dr Chris Belyea, there currently appears
to be no concerns in relation to side-effects compared to the existing
drugs, which he says all have side-effects that limit their dose.
Should
this revolutionary pill meet expectations, the manufacturers are eager
to point out that it will not be an over-the-counter quick fix.
"Absolutely
not, we're looking at this as a prescription drug that will be controlled
by the doctor," he says. "I think it's wrong to look at it
as a fix-all-eat-all-you-like pill. The approach we're taking is to
improve the overall health of the population."
With the
weight of the world resting on the little Australian pill, there'll
be a lot of fingers crossed around the country during the trial. Then,
if the pill proves safe and effective, it'll be another three years
before it's on the shelves. And, that's the one thing wrong with instant
gratification - it never happens fast enough.
"I
want to be thinner and I want it now!" says Sue.
www.metabolic.com.au
A special thank you to ACA & Channel 9 for this article
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to top
Breast
vs bottle ... what's best for baby?
25 November 1999
Reporter: Kellie Sloane
The official line from health authorities is that "breast is best"
when it comes to feeding a new baby, but it's an issue at the centre
of ongoing debate.Critics of the pro-breast feeding groups say mothers
shouldn't be made to feel guilty if they can't, or choose not to, breast-feed.
Despite being nature's way of sustenance, many new mothers are shocked
at just how difficult breast-feeding can be.
It's not as instinctive as they expect - for the mother or the baby.
Breast-feeding experts say it takes time and patience for mum and baby
to learn how it's done.
In the past five years, the number of women choosing to breast-feed
has plateaued. A growing number of those who do take the nursing option
are weaning their babies after six months, despite efforts to promote
the benefits of nursing until the baby's first birthday.
It's believed the pressure on career mums to return to work is partly
responsible, coupled with the ongoing discrimination against women who
breast-feed in restaurants and public places.
To help boost the numbers, pro-breast feeding groups are on the move
again to help educate new mothers, and promote the benefits of nursing
to both mother and baby.
A
special thank you to ACA & Channel 9 for this article
- although
1999 should be of some benefit!
Sexuality and Childbirth
Having
a baby is a significant expression of sexuality. It can bring many physical,
emotional and social changes that may alter a new parent's sexual needs,
and impact on relationships.
The changes brought about by childbirth will be experienced differently
by everyone. Some find a change in their level of sexual desire as well
as the way they respond sexually. A decrease in sexual activity after
childbirth is common.
How does childbirth affect sexual relationships?
Physical factors: Tiredness
Baby care is time consuming and demanding, and tiredness is common.
Waking during the night, feeding the baby frequently, and keeping the
household going, may mean that many women and men find they are just
too tired for sex.
One way to regain some energy is to make time when the baby is asleep
to relax or rest. Light, frequent meals and drinks will help sustain
coping skills. Time-out with the help of a baby-sitter, relative or
friend might also help.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding may make a woman's breasts feel heavy or tender, and this
may affect her sexual response. Some women report their sexual desire
does not return fully until they cease breastfeeding and their periods
become regular. Others report heightened sexual feelings as a result
of breastfeeding. Many women find that their breasts release small amounts
of milk during sexual activity or orgasm.
Hormonal changes associated with breastfeeding cause a lowering of oestrogen
levels in the vagina. For some women this may result in vaginal dryness
and uncomfortable sex. A water based lubricant may help, or see your
doctor for a prescribed vaginal oestrogen cream or vaginal pessary (tablet).
Pelvic floor muscles
The muscles surrounding the pelvic floor (vagina, urethra and anus)
are designed to stretch during pregnancy and childbirth. Well-toned
pelvic floor muscles may help a woman to become sexually aroused more
quickly and feel more sensation during sexual activity and orgasm.
Women are encouraged to exercise to tone and strengthen these muscles
after childbirth. For advice, contact a Family Planning Queensland (FPQ)
clinic, doctor, midwife or physiotherapist.
Pain
The experience of childbirth varies greatly for each woman. Depending
on the experience of labour, pain may or may not be a concern.
While episiotomy (a surgical procedure to increase the vaginal opening),
haemorrhoids, bruising and stitches after a vaginal birth may cause
pain for a number of weeks, the vagina should heal readily. In general,
after a Caesarean birth the area around the scar may be tender for some
time, so it may be helpful to try sexual positions that do not cause
discomfort.
Feeling stressed or anxious about sex may increase tension and tenderness
in the vagina, making intercourse more difficult or painful in the short-term.
If sex is uncomfortable, talk to your partner, try different positions,
and use a water-based lubricant if necessary. Explore other ways to
be intimate, such as kissing, cuddling, massage or oral sex.
Emotional factors:
The months following childbirth can be a vulnerable time for many women,
men and families, bringing conflicting emotions.
Some reasons for this may include:
Body image
While a changed body shape is natural during pregnancy, many women expect
to return to their pre-pregnancy weight and shape as soon as possible
after childbirth. Self-esteem and confidence may be challenged if this
doesn't happen quickly. Feelings of lovability and sexual attractiveness
may need to be discussed and addressed. Generally, within twelve months
after birth, body weight returns to what it was before the pregnancy.
Breastfeeding, healthy eating habits and regular exercise can all help
this process.
Depression
While having a baby can be one of the most joyful times, it is also
true that it can greatly affect parents' emotional well-being. Stress
and depression can result in a lack of sex drive.
Coping with a new baby at home may be stressful, particularly if there
are other children to attend to. Mild depression is common. As many
as 85 % of women report having 'maternity blues'. This may start shortly
after childbirth and continue for a few weeks.
Lack of sleep, poor diet and loss of confidence may account for symptoms
of tearfulness, mood changes, irritability and anxiety. This is an expected
reaction requiring support and reassurance.There are usually no long-term
consequences. Talking to family and friends who can offer support, reassurance
and advice may help.
A deeper anxiety called post natal depression (PND) is more serious,
sometimes starting two to four weeks after birth. Should you feel concerned
about depression, it is important you seek professional help from doctors,
midwives or counsellors.
Other factors:
Likelihood of interruption during sex
Sexual activity may be inhibited through fear of disturbing the new
baby or being interrupted by another child. Placing the baby in another
room to sleep, if only for a few hours, may be helpful.
Relationship issues
The increased responsibilities that a new baby brings may be a source
of stress on relationships. The intimacy between mother and baby could
pose a threat to a partner who may previously have enjoyed the new mother's
full attention.It is important that couples openly communicate their
feelings, expectations and concerns about their relationship.
Fear of unplanned pregnancy
Fear of an unplanned pregnancy may have an effect on a woman's sexual
desire, response and enjoyment of sex. Reliable contraception will help
relieve this anxiety.
So, when is it okay to start having sex?
Unless a doctor or midwife has advised against it, each woman can decide
when she feels ready and comfortable to resume sexual intercourse. It
is best to wait until the vagina and cervix have healed. It may surprise
and/or distress some women and men to find that breasts may leak during
sex. Keeping a towel handy may be helpful.
What methods of contraception are suitable after childbirth?
Oral contraception:
The progestogen only pill (mini pill) does not affect breastfeeding
and can be started three to four weeks after childbirth.
The combined oral contraceptive pill (the Pill) is not recommended for
women who are breastfeeding as it can reduce the volume and make-up
of breast milk. In women who are not breastfeeding, the combined pill
can be started three weeks after childbirth.
Injectable contraception:
DMPA (Depo-Provera, Depo-Ralovera) does not interfere with breastfeeding.
However, it is preferable that the first injection is postponed until
around six weeks after birth. If started earlier, heavy and prolonged
bleeding may occur.
Contraceptive implant (Implanon):
As above but can be inserted 4 weeks after birth.
Barrier methods:
A diaphragm can be fitted six weeks after childbirth. A weight gain
or loss of 5kg will require the diaphragm to be checked, and perhaps
a new size fitted. Male or female condoms can be used as soon as sex
is resumed. Condoms (and abstinence) are the only method of contraception
that also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If
vaginal dryness is a problem, extra water-based lubricant is recommended.
The intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUD) & the progestogen-releasing
intrauterine system, Mirena:
Both Mirena and the IUD can be inserted six to eight weeks after a vaginal
birth or twelve weeks after a Caesarean birth.
Male and female sterilisation:
Sterilisation is considered to be a permanent method of contraception.
It is recommended that decisions relating to sterilisation be delayed
until a few months after birth.
Natural methods:
For women who are fully breastfeeding, lactational amenorrhoea method
(LAM) is a reliable method of contraception after birth, providing all
the following conditions exist:
the
mother is fully breastfeeding; i.e. the baby is not receiving any other
food supplements (solids or bottles)
the baby is less than six months old
periods
have not returned
If all of these conditions are met, breastfeeding provides a high level
of protection from pregnancy. If not, the woman should consider herself
potentially fertile and use another method of contraception.
Note: the information in this factsheet is intended as a guide only.
For more information on any of these methods, or to choose the best
one for you, talk to your local FPQ clinic, doctor or midwife.
Disclaimer
Family Planning Queensland (FPQ)
has taken every care to ensure that the information contained in this
publication is accurate and up-to-date at the time of being published.
As information and knowledge is constantly changing, readers are strongly
advised to confirm that the information complies with present research,
legislation and policy guidelines. FPQ accepts no responsibility for
difficulties that may arise as a result of an individual acting on the
advice and recommendations it contains.
We
thank the Family
Planning Queensland (FPQ)
for making this information available and you can obtain more information
by visiting their very informative Web site by
Clicking here
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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the term used to describe a range
of symptoms that some women experience in the two weeks before menstruation.
Symptoms are relieved by the onset of menstruation which is followed
by a symptom free interval.Premenstrual syndrome refers to a range of
mood and behavioural changes and physical symptoms that are linked to
the menstrual cycle.Who experiences PMS? Up to 50% of women notice some
physical, emotional or behavioural change prior to the start of their
period.
Around 5 -10% of women experience a significant disturbance of health
and well-being at this time. For a small number this disturbance can
be debilitating.
PMS can occur in women of any age prior to menopause, but is more commonly
reported in women between 30 and 40 years of age.
What causes PMS?
The cause of PMS is not well understood. Changes in the body's production
of the female hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, normally occur during
the menstrual cycle. Some research suggests that PMS is caused by the
interaction between these and other hormones and brain chemicals.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies have also been investigated as possible
causes of PMS. Stress and other psychological factors may contribute
to the incidence and severity of PMS.
What are the symptoms of PMS?
There are many symptoms of PMS, with over 150 having been described.
These vary from woman to woman and cycle to cycle. Usually a number
of symptoms occur together. These may be physical, emotional or behavioural.
The most commonly reported symptoms include:
breast tenderness and swelling
weight gain
abdominal
bloating
headache
abdominal
and back pain
fatigue
poor
concentration
irritability/depression
aggression
decrease
in motivation
How is PMS identified?
For most women PMS can be identified by keeping a daily record,
chart or diary that notes when symptoms occur during the menstrual cycle.
Typically, women with PMS have a pattern of symptoms during the two
weeks prior to the period, then experience at least 7 symptom free days
after the period has finished.
Symptoms that persist throughout the whole month may not be related
to PMS. A thorough medical assessment is advised as some similar symptoms
are present in other conditions, such as anaemia, diabetes, thyroid
disorders and mood disorders.
How can PMS be managed?
Knowledge about PMS may help women understand, accept and manage
this condition. Partners, family and friends may also benefit from information
about PMS, as symptoms may affect relationships. Anything that improves
general health and well-being may help alleviate symptoms of PMS,
including:
regular
exercise
rest,
relaxation and meditation
a
healthy, well balanced diet that is low in sugar and caffeine
a
reduction in smoking and alcohol intake
loose
clothing may reduce discomfort caused by bloating
a
supportive bra
methods
of contraception which prevent ovulation (and result in changes in hormone
levels) may be beneficial to some women.
Counselling
Counselling can help relieve stress and improve coping skills. It may
also be beneficial if mood disorders are contributing to the severity
of PMS.
Natural therapies
Massage, acupuncture, naturopathy and other natural therapies may
help alleviate PMS.MedicationsAnalgesics can help reduce headache, pelvic
and abdominal pain associated with PMS.
The oral contraceptive pill which prevents ovulation, is beneficial
for some women with PMS. Other hormonal treatments may also help alleviate
the symptoms of PMS.
Certain anti-depressant medications are used in the treatment of severe
PMS.
Management of PMS can be discussed at a Family Planning Queensland (FPQ)
clinic or with a general practitioner.
Disclaimer
Family Planning Queensland (FPQ) has taken every care
to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate
and up-to-date at the time of being published. As information and knowledge
is constantly changing, readers are strongly advised to confirm that
the information complies with present research, legislation and policy
guidelines. FPQ accepts no responsibility for difficulties that may
arise as a result of an individual acting on the advice and recommendations
it contains.
We thank the Family
Planning Queensland (FPQ)
for making this information available and you can obtain more information
by visiting their very informative Web site by
Clicking here
back
to top
Menopause
Menopause is the stage in a woman's life when she stops having
periods.
Menopause is a natural life event. It can occur abruptly but this
is rare. Generally it follows the perimenopause, a gradual period
of change, which begins with hormonal changes and ends when the periods
stop. This transition can take a number of years.
For many women, these changes will have little impact on their lives;
however, some women may experience symptoms severe enough to affect
their health and well-being, and disrupt their lives.
Some women might feel anxious about reaching the menopause and mourn
the loss of their fertility and youth. For others the menopause can
mean a new lease of life, free from concerns about periods, premenstrual
syndrome or pregnancy.
When do women reach menopause?
Women reach menopause at different ages, but most women stop menstruating
between the ages of 45 and 55.
Premature menopause occurs when a woman has her last period before
the age of 40. This may happen naturally or it may be brought about
by medical treatments affecting the ovaries such as surgery, radiotherapy
or chemotherapy.
What happens as a woman approaches menopause?
Before the menopause the ovaries release ova (eggs) and produce the
hormones oestrogen and progesterone, as well as small quantities of
testosterone. As a woman approaches menopause, the production of these
hormones fluctuates and slows down. The fluctuating levels of oestrogen
are thought to cause most perimenopausal symptoms. The ovaries stop
releasing ova and eventually periods stop. After the woman's last
period the amount of oestrogen produced in her body is much lower.
What might women experience at menopause?
During perimenopause periods commonly change. Periods may end suddenly,
but more often become irregular, or heavier and longer before eventually
stopping.
Other physical effects may include:
hot
flushes or sweats. Hot flushes may be associated with sweating, palpitations,
and a sudden 'wave of heat', especially around the neck and face, or
a 'crawling' feeling under the skin. Sweating may be more noticeable
at night, disturbing sleep.
dryness
of the vagina - the lining of the vagina becomes thinner and less elastic
and there may be less vaginal lubrication. This may cause intercourse
to be uncomfortable or less enjoyable.
urinary
problems - reduced elasticity in the muscles may affect bladder tone
and cause urine to be passed frequently or when coughing or sneezing.
dry
skin
increased
facial hair
joint
pain
loss
of breast tissue
Emotional or psychological changes may include:
symptoms
of depression
anxiety
mood
swings
tiredness
lower
sex drive
poor
concentration or memory
Emotional symptoms might also be due to life stresses such as children
leaving home, ageing or death of parents, changes in employment, health
or relationships.
What are the long-term effects of menopause?
Cardiovascular disease
Before menopause women are less likely than men to suffer from heart
disease or strokes. The rates of these conditions increase after menopause,
and by the age of 65, the rates in men and women are equal. Almost 50%
of women die from cardiovascular disease.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is characterised by thinning of the bones, leading to a
greater chance of a fracture occurring, particularly in the hip, spine
and wrist.
Loss of oestrogen after the menopause is the major cause of osteoporosis.
Factors that may increase a woman's risk of osteoporosis include:
early
menopause
family
history of osteoporosis
thin
build
anorexia
or excessive exercise
long
term use of cortisone, anticonvulsants, some antacids and some diuretics
lifestyle
factors such as smoking, high intake of alcohol and caffeine, low calcium
diet and lack of exercise
What can women do to manage menopause?
Information and support
Women may benefit from understanding what is happening to their bodies.
Information is available from Family Planning Queensland (FPQ) clinics,
women's health centres, medical practitioners and books.
Discussing menopause with other women can also be helpful. Partners
and other family members will find it easier to be supportive if they
understand what happens during menopause.
Diet and Exercise
Regular exercise and a healthy diet are helpful in maintaining or improving
overall health and feelings of well-being.
A diet that is low in fat, salt and sugar, but high in calcium and fibre
may help prevent osteoporosis and heart disease and maintain a healthy
weight.
Stress management
Relaxation helps maintain physical and mental health so it may be useful
for women to learn relaxation techniques and try to make time for themselves.
Hot flushes
Within reason, try to avoid situations that may trigger hot flushes.
These include emotional situations, smoking, changes in temperature,
eating hot spicy foods, and drinking caffeine or alcohol. Layer clothing
so top ones can easily be removed when necessary.
Professional help
Seek professional help if physical, emotional or psychological problems
are a concern. This help may include counselling, medical treatments
and/or alternative therapies.
Some plants contain weak oestrogen-like substances called phytoestrogens.
Foods containing phytoestrogens are currently being researched to assess
their value in relieving menopausal symptoms.
Other therapies that may be helpful include herbal remedies, naturopathy,
acupuncture, homeopathy, reflexology, hypnotherapy and massage.
Medical treatments include hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT has
been shown to relieve menopausal symptoms and plays a role in the prevention
and treatment of osteoporosis. There are various types of HRT currently
available. Studies also show that HRT may help in the prevention of
heart disease.
FPQ clinics, women's health centres, medical practitioners or alternative
therapists can provide information to assist women in deciding which
therapy to use.
What about sexuality after menopause?
Interest in and feelings about sex sometimes change in midlife. Generally,
if sex has been important and enjoyable in a woman's younger years it
will continue to be in her middle and later years. The quality of a
woman's relationship with her partner will also affect her feelings
about sex.
If physical changes such as vaginal dryness and thinning of vaginal
walls lead to discomfort during sex, then vaginal lubricants, HRT or
alternative therapies may be useful. Sexuality involves more than just
intercourse. It is enhanced when partners feel good about themselves
and feel loved and loving.
Is contraception still necessary after menopause?
To prevent pregnancy it is important to continue using a reliable method
of contraception for at least 1 year after the last period, if this
occurred after the age of 50; and for 2 years for women whose last period
occurred before the age of 50. This is a guideline only, and it is recommended
that advice be sought from an FPQ clinic or health care professional.
If a woman has been taking the Pill or HRT before her periods have stopped
it may not be clear if she has reached menopause, and professional advice
should be sought.
What about health checks?
All women should have a regular general health check-up.
Pap smears are recommended every 2 years for women who have not had
a hysterectomy, and more frequently for women who have had a previous
abnormal smear.
Breast screening is recommended every 1-2 years. National breast
screening programs accept women for mammography screening for breast
cancer from the age of 40.
Disclaimer
Family Planning Queensland (FPQ) has taken every care to ensure
that the information contained in this publication is accurate and up-to-date
at the time of being published. As information and knowledge is constantly
changing, readers are strongly advised to confirm that the information
complies with present research, legislation and policy guidelines. FPQ
accepts no responsibility for difficulties that may arise as a result
of an individual acting on the advice and recommendations it contains.
We
thank the Family
Planning Queensland (FPQ)
for making this information available and you can obtain more information
by visiting their very informative Web site by
Clicking here
Doctors4U®
acknowledges that information is constantly changing so remember these
articles are placed here for information only and we urge all visitors
to our sites to seek the advice of their own
qualified Health Professional.
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