5 Ways to Cope with Early Menopause

Early menopause - also called premature menopause or premature ovarian failure - occurs when a woman goes through menopause before the age of 40. You may experience all the usual symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, irregular periods, loss of libido, vaginal dryness, headaches, and fatigue. Early menopause can be confusing and stressful, as well as impact your self-esteem. However, there are ways to make the transition easier. Read on to learn five ways to cope with early menopause.

Be Informed

There is plenty of information available about the causes of early menopause, its symptoms, and possible treatments. Once you understand the facts and options available, what you are facing will feel more manageable. You will be able to find the right treatments for you, and your early menopause symptoms will be easier to handle.

Explore Other Options

If you are trying to conceive, becoming pregnant after the onset of early menopause symptoms is unfortunately unlikely. Speak to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy, find out about adoption, and look into other options. Just because you are experiencing early menopause does not mean that you cannot be a mother; you just need to find an alternative that works.

Talk to People with Similar Experiences

As many as 1 in 1000 women experience menopause early; you are not alone. It may help to discuss how you are feeling with others who have been through the same thing. There are numerous forums and discussion boards online, and there are groups where you can meet with other women. Talk to others about how they coped, and see what techniques you can adopt to handle early menopause.

Don't Give up on Your Youth

Just because you're going through the uphill struggle of early menopause does not mean you are on the way down the other side. Although menopause symptoms may be confusing, tiring, and stressful, do not let them trick you into thinking you are older than you are. Have a girls' night out, go on a romantic evening with your partner - carry on enjoying your 20s and 30s as you would, and do not give up on your youth.

Treat Yourself

You may be experiencing feelings of self-doubt and low self-esteem, but there is no need for these feelings to take over. If you feel yourself flagging, treat yourself to a new dress, a massage, a long bath, or whatever it is that will make you feel pampered and lift your spirits.

It is important to remember that you are not going through early menopause alone; it is something experienced by more women than you might expect. There many ways to deal with the emotional and physical aspects of early menopause, so take the time to find what works for you. Speak to your doctor, your friends and family, and other women who are going through the same thing. Click on the following link for more information about early menopause.