A study found that about 6000 US women reach menopause or perimenopause every day. About 2 million women reach this stage each year. Most women are ill-prepared for this critical stage in a woman’s career.
Dr. Karen Pike is a name that will be familiar to those who have attempted to understand Menopause. She founded the website Simply Menopause to help educate women over 50 about Menopause.
After years of working as the chief of staff at one of the most prestigious hospitals in the US Dr. Pike discovered that many women lacked the knowledge and resources necessary to cope with Menopause. Women are not aware of the changes in their bodies and are confused when they seek help from doctors who are mainly male.
Dr. Karen Pike shares her thoughts in this interview about menopause. Here are some of her tips on how to deal with the issues that can suddenly arise, beyond hot flashes.
Interview with Dr. Karen Pike
Hello Dr. Pike! I appreciate your time. Let’s start by addressing some of the most important issues older women will face during Menopause.
Many women are aware of hot flashes. This is the most common sign of menopause. What does it feel like exactly?
Dr. Pike: I appreciate you having me. Hot flashes are like heat waves coursing through the body. It’s hard to explain to someone who doesn’t know what it is like.
This sudden heat wave is rising from the center of your body and spreading out to your limbs and face. You may start to sweat profusely and your face could turn red. It can take several moments for the effects to subside. The effects will not completely disappear until you wait a few more minutes. You feel more than just discomfort when you start to experience it.
Women may be unprepared if they don’t know that it is possible to feel extremely hot. You might feel embarrassed if you begin to sweat profusely in front of friends or family.
Doesn’t work?
Dr. Pike: First of all, it’s not a big deal. This is a normal phenomenon, which occurs when the female body regulates its internal functions after menstruation has stopped.
Tracking how often your hot flashes occur is a great way to stay on top of things. How often do you feel it each day? Does something trigger it more? Hot flashes can be stressful. Avoid stressful situations as they can trigger them.
Keep ice packs, cold drinks and a fridge in your home at all times. Sit back and take a deep breath. If you need to, drink cold water or turn on the air conditioner. After the episode has passed, you can gradually resume your normal activities.
The hot flashes are a serious issue. What else is there to expect?
Dr. Pike: Menopause can affect various women in different ways. Climate and ethnicity also play an important role.
Other issues women may experience during this period include anxiety, insomnia and dizziness, as well as UTIs, dry skin and hair, joint pain and aches, and the growth of facial hair. Additionally, hormonal imbalances can lead to vaginal drier and reduced libido.
This list seems exhaustive. What are some ways you have dealt with these problems?
Dr. Pike: First, any woman going through Menopause should maintain a positive attitude. It’s easier to say than do. Women have been conditioned to believe, due to social constructs, that their value is diminished once they are no longer able bear children. In some communities women are more likely to be made to feel that way than in others.
To prepare yourself for Menopause, I would suggest that you speak with other women who have experienced it. If you can, seek medical attention from a doctor with experience treating menopausal patients.
The therapy can be a great help during this period. If that’s not possible, at least join a group that can relate to what you’re going through. During this time, female friendships are important.
