How to Cope with Early Menopause

For the nearly 10% of women who enter menopause before the age of 40, coping with the major life event of early menopause can be difficult. After all, most women imagine menopause as something that occurs in their 50s, not their 30s. However, learning to manage your feelings while confronting the reality of early menopause is very important to your health and well-being.

Keep reading to learn more about how to cope with early menopause.

Don't Despair

As difficult as it is to deal with, early menopause cannot be prevented. However, you can find menopausal relief through lifestyle changes and many herbal supplements. If you are experiencing menopause before you have had children of your own, adoption and foster care are options you can consider if you have always imagined children in your future. Whatever you do, don't despair. You have options.

Talk to Someone

Early menopause is more common than you think. Chances are you know someone who has also experienced this life change earlier than expected. By talking to someone going through a similar experience, you'll not only be able to express your feelings and concerns, you'll also feel validated. There's nothing more isolating than suffering in silence.

Be Open

Hiding your early menopause symptoms from family and friends may seem like the easiest way out now, but it will only isolate you and lead to confusion and conflict later. Be open and talk to your partner and family about your menopausal symptoms. You'll likely find them to be understanding of your situation and supportive of your needs.

Treat Yourself

Between the physical symptoms and the emotional rollercoaster of early menopause, this is a difficult time. Be sure the make some time every day for activities you enjoy. Plant a garden, go out to the movies, walk your dog. If you're feeling particularly stressed out, and have the means to do so, you may want to drop what you're doing and take a vacation. Even taking a relaxing weekend out of town can be rejuvenating. Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy it.

Early menopause is difficult, but you can get through it with the right balance of emotional support from friends and family, and personal support through stress relieving activities.