Menopause From A to Z

I want to welcome you all to the big change. Where it can feel like your body has joined the circus without even asking you. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here’s a little survival guide to help you through.

Menopause from the beginning

• A is for Anxiety: Your nerves may be tight. Tight like a guitar string. It is your hormones shifting. Take a few deep breaths and stay calm. Seek help to cope if you need to.
• B is for Brain Fog: Hey, did you just walk in that room and forget why? I know, it happens to the best of us. You’ll find your phone and car keys soon.
• C is for Chills: Listen, one minute your will feel like a furnace. The next, you will be a frozen popsicle. Layering your clothes is your best friend.
• D is for Dryness: I mean everything. Your skin, your eyes and even “down below” may feel dry as the Sahara Desert. Keep lotion and water close by.
• E is for Energy (or lack thereof): Some days you will feel like a sloth. Other days you’ll feel like a cheetah. Listen to your body and honor what it needs.

The middle of the menopause road

• F is for Forgetfulness: Wait, what was I saying again? Oh right, memory slips are the norm now. Sticky notes have been my lifesaver.
• G is for Girth: Your waist may expand a bit. I call it the “meno fluff.” Go on and wear those comfortable mom jeans with pride.
• H is for of course, Hot Flashes: These are like your own personal summer. They don’t last too long, but it feels like forever. Breath through it and grab a fan.
• I is for itchy skin: Some days you will feel like an army of ants are all over your body. Find a soap with some oatmeal and a good oil to help your skin feel better.
• J is for Joint Pain: Your knees my creak like a door. Your hips may feel stiff like a board. Keep moving and stay active. Find gentle ways to keep moving.
• K is for Knowledge: Learn all you can about this stage of your life. Knowing the facts makes it less scary.
• L is for Libido: Your drive might go on a long hike. Do not stress, it often finds its way back. Find other ways to be intimate.

Deep into the symptom alphabet

• M is for Mood Swings: You might cry at a soap ad. Then you might laugh at a sad song. It is a total rollercoaster. This is another great time to take some deep breaths or a break.
• N is for Night Sweats: Waking up in a puddle is not fun. Keep a fan by the bed to get some relief.
• O is for Osteoporosis: Your bones need extra care now. Eat whole foods that help heal your body.
• P is for Palpitations: If your heart skips a beat, stay calm. Get in touch with your doctor to make sure all is okay. Don’t be afraid to discuss what you feel.
• Q is for Quiet Time: You will need time for yourself. Don’t feel bad for saying no.
• R is for Restless Legs: Sometimes your legs may want to dance at 3 a.m. Gentle movement and limiting triggers may help. A doctor can help identify the underlying causes for this.

The final stretch

• S is for Sleep Issues: Falling asleep can definitely feel like a hard chore. Try keeping a bedtime routine.
• T is for Thinning Hair: You may see more hair in your brush. Trying new styles and talking to your doctor about vitamins could help.
• U is for Urgency: Look, when you have to go, you have to go. Kegel exercises can help you stay strong.
• V is for Vertigo: The world may spin for a moment. Sit down and allow that feeling to pass. Reach out to your doctor for assessments and assistance.
• W is for Weight Gain: Your metabolism is taking a slow nap. Eat well, but don’t be too hard on yourself.
• X is for eXasperation: Everything and anything might annoy you for a bit. Laugh it off when you can and take breaks as needed.
• Y is for YOU: Focus on your health and joy. YOU are still the same great person.
• Z is for Zzzs: Cherish the nights you sleep well. Better nights will return soon.

There is hope in menopause

Menopause is not the end of your story. It’s a brand new chapter to navigate. Hang in there, stay hopeful, and don’t lose your beautiful spirit. Brighter days are on the way.