Building A Life After Menopause - Post Menopause And What To Expect

You've suffered through the hot flashes and mood swings, your final period has come and gone, and now you enter into that phase of life known as postmenopause. During this period, you will still undergo a lot of physical and mental changes. Although these changes are certainly less severe than those experienced during menopause, they can be no less confusing. That's why we wanted to take this opportunity to talk to you about what you can expect in your post menopausal years, as well as any health concerns you should have.

What Is Post Menopause?

The first thing you need to understand as a woman who has already been through menopause, is that you are not considered technically postmenopausal until a full year has passed since your last period. Because women in the menopause cycle may experience periods as infrequently as just two or three times a year, this 12-month period is necessary for your doctor to determine that you have actually completed your fertile period.

What To Expect

Until you have passed a full year from your last menstrual cycle, it may still be possible for you to become pregnant. Though highly unlikely at this stage, your doctor can give you a better idea of your chances of getting pregnant so that you know approximately how important it is to use some form of birth control if you don't want to conceive a child.

In addition to decreased fertility, postmenopausal women also experience a significant drop in the menopausal symptoms. Libido increases (although more gradually for some woman than for others), hot flashes become non-existent, and the mood swings that kept you and your family on edge for so long will finally begin to disappear.

But along with the decrease in menopausal symptoms, a postmenopausal woman also has to worry about an increased risk for certain health condition. The most common problems that a postmenopausal woman will need to be concerned about are osteoporosis, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Postmenopausal Precautionary Measures

In order to prevent the medical problems that can arise in your postmenopausal years, it is important that you understand there are certain preventative measures you can take to ensure that you stay as healthy as possible.

The most important thing to remember when you enter the post menopause phase is that a healthy lifestyle is your best defence against medical issues like osteoporosis and heart disease. Getting plenty of exercise needs to definitely be a part of your daily routine, but only if it is the right exercise. Think in terms of walking, yoga and other low impact types of exercise, and you'll be better able to keep your body in tip-top shape after menopause.

You also need to make certain that you maintain a healthy diet in your postmenopause years. High levels of calcium can help to stave off osteoporosis, and your doctor can give you a list of the various foods you should be eating in order to keep your body healthy.

Overall, now that you've got your energy back, and the terrible symptoms of menopause have all but faded away, you can begin to enjoy some of the most fruitful years of your life. Just remember to take good care of your body, mind and spirit, and your postmenopausal years can be the best era you've ever experienced!

Learn more about menopause symptoms and menopause relief