Doctors talked about ways to survive menopause without severe consequences
Menopause is accompanied not only by physical, but also by pronounced emotional changes associated with hormonal changes in the body. On May 15, Angelika Eremenko, a clinical psychologist at the Axon Mental Health clinic, and Leyla Ibragimova, an obstetrician-gynecologist, pediatric gynecologist, gynecologist-endocrinologist at the Semeynaya clinic network, told Izvestia about this.
Psychophysiology of menopause
According to the psychologist, menopause is a complex biochemical transformation. A decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels alters the functioning of the serotonin and dopamine systems of the brain responsible for sleep and calmness. The brain is temporarily left without hormonal support, which causes anxiety, tearfulness, apathy, and decreased stress tolerance.
According to the expert, during perimenopause, the risk of developing clinical depression increases two to four times. Yeremenko stressed that such conditions require correction under the supervision of a specialist.
"This is not a "bad character" or a weakness of will. This is biochemistry. And it can be adjusted," said Yeremenko.
Physiological symptoms and risks
The gynecologist noted that the changes begin even in premenopause. Against the background of a decrease in estrogens, the thermoregulation system in the brain is disrupted. As a result, the body perceives even a small internal heat as overheating, which provokes hot flashes, sweating and palpitations.
Hormonal deficiency increases the risk of developing atherosclerosis, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Bone metabolism is also disrupted, which leads to a loss of up to 3-5% of bone mass per year and osteoporosis. Ibragimova warned that spotting a year after the cessation of menstruation and fainting require an immediate visit to the doctor.
"Even the slightest internal heat release (for example, from a cup of hot tea or mild excitement) is perceived by the hypothalamus as catastrophic overheating," explained Ibragimova.
Ways to alleviate the condition
Menopausal hormone therapy (MGT) helps protect the heart and bones. Ibragimova clarified that for women under 60 years of age or within 10 years after the onset of menopause, the benefits of MGT outweigh the risks. If there are contraindications, phytoestrogens may be recommended, although their effect is less pronounced.
The specialist advises to normalize nutrition, sleep and maintain physical activity. After the age of 45, it is important to undergo regular mammography, ultrasound, and densitometry.
Helping a partner
Lifestyle modification plays an important role: physical activity and a Mediterranean diet. Relatives are advised not to devalue the condition of a woman and reduce the household burden. The psychologist advises partners to show tactile support without obsession in order to increase oxytocin levels and calm the woman's nervous system.
"I see it's hard for you. I'm here," Yeremenko gave an example of a supportive phrase.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
