Living M Skincare Brand My beauty and skin care tips perimenopause and beyond! Photo Credit – Make Up & Hair Salon www.themakeupandhairbar.com
Let me share with you the joy of Living M skincare, my beauty and skin care tips for perimenopause and beyond into post menopause!
I guarantee, you will be ordering your first delivery of Living M after reading this blog with my review.
Introducing a menopause friendly company that is dedicated to helping women with skincare at the stage of perimenopause.
Perimenopause is a time when you first start to notice that your skin is changing.
I can already hear you all cheering!
Perimenopause is an important time to start preparing skin for the effects of menopause and beyond. This is something of which I wish I had been made aware of.
We were told in beauty magazines and major advertising that beauty creams would help our skin as we age but I never heard no mention of the effects of menopause.
Living M have developed a beauty brand that not only builds products that target the effects of hormonal skin changes but also normalises the conversation around ageing. This is what we need!
It can be hard to find a product during perimenopause, I can definitely speak from experience with this and with a bathroom cupboard full of creams and lotions, this is a revelation!
During perimenopause it can be an expensive time, trying various creams but it is also a time of the crucial must haves.
Living M was founded by Caroline and Siobhan, friends and experts in the beauty industry with over 20 years of experience from London and New York.
Designing a skincare brand for women to enhance women’s skin not a cream to turn back time but to show the beauty of ageing by using healthy and sustainable ingredients.
I agree with Living M, most skincare products that are aimed for women of 40+ are scented and jam packed and full of ingredients which can aggravate womens skin at the time of perimenopause and menopause. This then becomes a vicious cycle. Women do not want to waste money on expensive creams and lotions.
Nobody wants to have a hot flush resulting with a red, blotchy and sweaty stream across their face. Exactly what has happened to me so many times.
As a Menopausal women, we want products that give us a glow and a fresh dewy faced look. Since using Living M autumn, I like to think my skin has this effect. I have been very impressed by the results.
Living M avoids using irritants, essential oils and alcohol which cause the skin to become dry.
Have you noticed by using certain brands, after using the skincare your skin feels dry or becomes ultra sensitive?
Do you have a bathroom full of opened skincare/beauty items that have not been used at all due to having a reaction?
Living M have built a skincare system that delivers a delicious and nourishing skincare, which it should be at this time of a woman’s life. We all want to look our best and give our skin the right products.
My delivery of Living M skincare arrived very neatly packaged and with my favourite colours!
Skincare and beauty tips
Clear and concise instructions of how to use the products for the daily skincare essentials. That also sit very well upon my bathroom shelf.
I have been using Living M Collagen Boost Moisturiser since last autumn and the timing was perfect for the change of season. I could feel that my skin not only needed moisture but also brightening. The Collagen Boost Moisturiser delivers a plumping, glowing and firmer effect for my skin. The difference has been amazing for my skin. Feels very light to wear and easy to apply. My redness has disappeared since using, which has been great. My skin feels much more calmer, nourished and I like to think looks healthier and glowing. Living M has produced a cream that puts back what the menopause takes away!
The Collagen Boost Moisturiser is packed full of goodness! Signal Peptides – Helps to stimulate collagen! Resveratol- A phytooestrogen and antioxidant , this magic ingredient provides oestrogen type effects! Niacinamide – A barrier for the skin that also brightens and boosts! Multi Molecular Hyaluronic Acid – A cream that not only holds moisture but goes to a deep level beneath the skin. Avocado and Cupuacu Butters – Healing and protective fatty acids to ensure skin is moisturised.
I Use the Collagen Boost Moisturiser daily, for my skincare regime, first thing in the morning and last thing at night.
Use a cleanser and apply the Quench & Soothe Serum first and layer with the Collgen Boost Moisturiser. Don’t forget to add a good quality SPF on top for during the day.
Your skin will not only feel soft and supple without the heaviness of some other creams and I can confirm with hot flushes my skin did not start to drip endlessly!
Perfect to wear under make up too.
Quench & Soothe Serum A great hydrator! A serum that has been designed to combat the the hormonal highway of perimenopause! What is not to love about the the Quench and Sooth Serum.
A small amount goes a long way and makes a difference to your skin, I noticed after using regularly my skin appeared brighter, smoother and alot more calmer. No red cheeks and feeling hydrated. It has been a must have item during the winter months.
Multi Molecular Hyaloronic Acid – For intense hydration! Niacinamide – To help with those hormonal break outs, reduces redness. It does what it says! Vitamin B5 – For elasticity and softness for your skin.
I used each day for my skincare regime and I layered underneath the Collagen Boost Moisturiser. Or you can wear alone.
My skin felt heavenly and plumped!
Real Life Meno 60 Seconds with Founder Lorna Ive.
Real life Meno 60 seconds Lorna Ive – Founder Perimenopost.com
Who am I?
I am Lorna Ive, Founder of Perimenopost.com an award winning menopause platform to help and support within a safe community. An executive menopause coach delivering workshops for menopause wellbeing and menopause workplace training.
Perimenopost.com offers a bespoke Social Media Consultancy service for menopause brands who want to provide a service to women’s health and menopause wellbeing.
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life #Menowarriors 1) Best Part of menopause?
Knowing that I wasn’t going mad and once I accepted and was aware of what was happening to my body I could accept and was satisfied with menopause, albeit a bit earlier but once I knew I soon realised that this was a part of life that every woman experiences.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
When I was diagnosed with early menopause, it all made sense and was a huge relief! I thought I wa going mad. I will always remember a moment in a large superstore, I was rushing to pack my shopping bags. I started to make a noise similar to Scooby Doo, then I was aware I was having a hot flush. This made me laugh and chuckle to myself. The checkout woman must of thought what an earth is going on. Freedom from the childbearing years and looking forward to the next stage of my life.
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
The build up to the perimenopause part as I was completely unaware, I had awful care from my then GP. There was no information or support for early menopause or perimenopause at that time.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
I followed the private route. I was first diagnosed by a private consultant with early menopause. I have continued care with specialists who are aware of my health issues.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace? I am a freelancing SM Strategist and Business owner. I am fortunate that I can work hours that suit me.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
I have tried both types of treatment. HRT is great if it works for you and not one type of HRT is a one size that fits all. Natural treatments and remedies are helpful to to manage symptoms, I have also tried these.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Diet and exercise. I have always taken my exercise seriously and dedicated to keeping healthy. I would say diet for myself personally. I fell into the trap that I thought I could eat what I ate when I was twenty something. This is now not an option at all, the effects of perimenopause and early menopause was really affected by diet and lifestyle. Alcohol and spicy foods I avoid and I eat much healthier at the age of 50 and I look after my health more since post menopause. This really needs addressing for women to take action in their thirties to eat a varied and healthy diet. 8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
I had a fantastic holiday of a lifetime at Christmas, which I hope is the first of many visits back. So I would like to be living in a hot country near a beach and writing my memoirs, maybe a novel?
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
Since starting my campaign perimenopost.com I have met some amazing campaigners and changemakers along the journey. There are so many to mention I would like to just say a big thank you to you all!
A shout out to Menopausal Mave AKA Kate Duffy – a fearless and awesome changemaker and campaigner for menopause and condition PMDD
Debbie Killingback – AKA Hot Flush Club – Debbie shares her personal menopause journey and also injects her fabulous sense of humour to help us laugh along the way with the hormone highway rollercoaster!
Lizzie Carr-Ellis one determined MenoWarrior who wants all to have access to the correct care, information with her informative posters across the UK and beyond!
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Meg Matthews she was a pioneer for my generation of women to speak up about menopause and to break down the narrative surrounding the stigma. I was lucky to have met Meg in person and she was so lovely and so passionate about changing womens lives for the better.
Real Life Meno 60 Second Interview
IP// Created by PeriMenoPost
Lorna’s top beauty and skincare tips for postmenopause!
Early nights – possibly the best advice.
Reduce alcohol – alcohol plays havoc with your sleep and cravings.
Cut out sugar snacks – sugar can cause your skin to break out.
Eat a healthy and varied diet – eat as clean as you can.
Exercise – great for skin, who doesn’t love a glow!
Brush – use a skin brush each day in the shower and brush your skin all over in an upwards motion.
Moisturise – use a good quality skin moisturiser in the shower to wash with and apply afterwards. Trust me this really helps your skin to lock in moisture.
Epsom salts – for a relaxing soak and detox for the body and skin use a good quality epsom salts. Make this a weekly self care treat.
Fresh air – getting outside for some vitamin D is not only good for your skin, bones but also your mental health. Lock in your favourite podcast and take a gentle stroll or brisk walk each day to brush away the cobwebs! Make walking a part of your daily routine.
If you are experiencing hot flushes, a top tip do not put on moisturiser before an important event or zoom call. Apply moisturiser at the end of the day.
Find a good hair brush that is gentle on your hair. Hair becomes weaker during the stages of menopause. Do not use harsh brushing as hair can become brittle.
Treat yourself to a nail manicure as part of your self-care regime.
Invest in a good quality SPF to wear all year round!
Stay out of the sun, as a sun worshipper myself this one is a tough one. But your skin will be thankful.
HRT (hormone replacement therapy) refers to replacement of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone hormones for relief of menopausal symptoms. It continues to be the most effective treatment for debilitating menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbance, brain fogging, mood fluctuations and vaginal dryness.
The use of HRT plummeted towards the beginning of this century following publication of results of some of the large clinical trials which suggested an increased risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease and breast cancer associated with its use. Over the past decade, further research and reanalysis of the data from original studies have revealed that for the vast majority of women under the age of 60, the benefits of HRT outweigh any risks.
However, misconceptions and myths prevail regarding use of HRT, and this article looks at the research behind HRT to dispel some of the common myths about its use and side effects.
1. HRT causes weight gain
There is no evidence to support a direct link between HRT and weight gain. Women may gain weight in the middle years due to changes in their diet, physical activity patterns and lifestyle. A slowing metabolic rate and redistribution of body fat towards the middle may also contribute to this. A healthy diet and regular exercise are important to prevent such weight gain.
Some women may experience side effects of bloating and fluid retention on HRT, which can lead them to believe that they are putting on weight.
2. All forms of HRT cause breast cancer
This is one of the biggest fears associated with the use of HRT and a common reason for women to choose not to take it. HRT with oestrogen alone is not associated with increase in the risk of breast cancer. Oestrogen-only HRT can only be taken by women who have had a hysterectomy. Combined HRT (oestrogen + some form of progesterone) can be associated with a small increased risk (for women of average weight in developed countries, 5 years of HRT starting at age 50 years, would increase breast cancer incidence at ages 50–69 by about 1 in every 50 users), however this is related to treatment duration and reduces once HRT is stopped.
The risk appears to be lower with some types of progesterone (intrauterine system Miena or natural progesterone Utrogestan) as compared to others. There are many other comparable risk factors for developing breast cancer such as being overweight, drinking 2-3 units of alcohol daily, smoking and undertaking little or no exercise.
There is no increased risk of breast cancer in women who take HRT under the age of 50 years (due to early or premature menopause). In these women, taking HRT simply replaces the hormones that body would otherwise produce until the age of the natural menopause and therefore does not carry the risks which are typically associated with use of HRT after the age of 50.
3. HRT has the risk of causing heart attack and stroke
HRT in any form does not increase the risk of heart disease if started before the age of 60 years. Taking combined HRT immediately after menopause for up to 10 years can actually reduce the risk of heart disease and dying from heart disease. There is a very small increased risk of stroke in women who take combined HRT, but this risk can be reduced by taking oestrogen through skin in the form of gels, patches or implants rather than oral tablets. The risk of stroke in women under 60 years is very low regardless of whether or not HRT is used.
4. All types of HRT can cause blood clots
Oral HRT can cause an increase in the likelihood of having a blood clot. This increased risk is very small and is higher in presence of other risk factors such as obesity or past episodes of blood clots. Maintaining healthy weight and taking oestrogen as either a gel, patch or an implant (through skin bypassing gut and liver) can effectively reduce the risk of blood clots.
5. If you need HRT you are beyond getting pregnant
HRT is mainly used for treatment of debilitating menopausal symptoms in women of all ages. In women who have had an early or premature menopause, HRT is also prescribed for prevention of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. However, HRT is not a contraceptive and young woman can conceive while taking HRT. Most national guidelines recommend that women who wish to avoid unwanted pregnancy while on HRT should continue to use some form of contraception until the age of 55 when loss of natural fertility can be assumed.
6. HRT delays the menopause
HRT is effective in treating the symptoms of menopause as it replaces the hormone/hormones which stop being produced in the body. HRT however does nothing to delay the decline in ovarian function. Any menopausal symptoms which women experience after stopping HRT are just the symptoms they would have anyway experienced even if they had never had HRT. In fact, when coming off HRT – it is advisable to reduce the dose of hormones and come off gradually to avoid oestrogen ‘withdrawal’ symptoms. Such symptoms, if at all they occur, are usually temporary and decrease quickly with time.
7. HRT carries the same risks as the pill
Although the pill and HRT both contain oestrogen and synthetic progesterone hormones, the hormones in HRT are less potent and in lower (more physiological) dose resulting in differences in side effects and risk profiles. Most pills contain a synthetic oestrogen compound – ethinyl oestradiol combined with synthetic progesterone which is usually a derivative of testosterone. Majority of HRT preparations combine natural oestrogen (17 beta oestradiol) with either a synthetic or natural progesterone. HRT is not contraindicated in women who suffer from migraines (patches, implants or gels preferred) and transdermal HRT preparations have a much lower risk of blood clots than the oral pill formulations.
8. Natural methods to treat menopausal symptoms are safer than HRT
Many women choose to take ‘natural’ or ‘bio-identical’ products to treat their menopausal symptoms however, these terms can be misleading or confusing. Many of the HRT compounds sold under these categories have often been custom-made by the individuals/clinics prescribing them and have not been subjected to the same level of rigorous scientific testing as the conventional regulated HRT preparations. Bio-identical HRT preparations (which are not part of regulated medical treatments) are not recommended for use by the British Menopause Society.
9. HRT cannot be prescribed until a woman stops her periods and her symptoms are unbearable
Many women will suffer from severe menopausal symptoms long before their last menstrual period (during perimenopause) and HRT can be safely prescribed to alleviate symptoms. HRT can also help even if the woman is having mild symptoms. In addition, there is increasing evidence that the earlier HRT is started, more are the benefits for protection from osteoporosis and heart disease.
10. Women need to have multiple tests to make sure they can take HRT or that they actually need it
Majority of women do not need any specific tests before HRT is prescribed. For some women, tests such as blood hormone profile, blood clotting screen or pelvic ultrasound may be needed based on their past medical history. It is recommended that blood pressure is regularly monitored while taking the HRT.
Further reading –
1. Menopause: diagnosis and management, NICE guideline, Nation Institute for health and care excellence, UK.Published: 12 November 2015; nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23.
2. Contraception for Women Aged Over 40 Years, FSRH guideline, Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare, UK. Published: August 2017 (Updated October 2017);
HRT Myths explained was written by Dr Vikram Talaulikar, MD MRCOG PhD
BMS certified Menopause Specialist
Menopause Clinic London
10 Harley Street, London
Has the menopause changed your relationship with your partner? Are you at a crossroads with your sex life due to menopause?
When menopause arrives it can unexpectedly create a curve ball within your relationship. You are suddenly dealing with your hormones that are changing constantly, going up and down and with it the many added physical symptoms.
It is of no surprise that your relationship with your partner may become strained during this time. It is important to talk to your partner and tell them how you are feeling and for you both to be patient and understanding. Your partner may be feeling completely at a loss too, with the sudden change in your relationship.
It’s important that you talk with your partner and your Gp about your symptoms.
During this time of change, why not try something new as a couple? Dancing, exercise togther – set a challenge and why not sign up for a race or event. Discover a new hobby, see some shows, concerts or take a spontaneous trip somewhere.
A positive mindset and talking to one another can help you get through this time, it is another chapter of your journey together try and make time to have some fun.
Enjoying Midlife Sex
By Sam Evans
We are very fortunate this week to be able to share with you a great blog from Samantha Evans, PeriMenoPost is proud to call a Menomate!
Twitter – @samtalkssex @jodivineuk a sexual health and pleasure expert.
Sam Evans lives locally in Tunbridge Wells and is a passionate advocate for ensuring women are correctly informed about their sexual health, she works tirelessly to ensure that women do not suffer, are in no pain or discomfort and that they are able to enjoy a fulfilled sex life. I have had the pleasure of hearing Sam talk at a local well woman event and Sam is great fun, incredibly knowledgable about all things sex, sex toys and lubricants. Sam is dedicated to making a change to womens sexual health and helping couples to be just as intimate as they always have been.
If you have experienced issues with intimacy and if your sexual health has been affected, read sams article. Sam provides positive, informative and helpful suggestions to help you regain a healthy sex life again.
“Samantha Evans”:https://www.jodivine.com/authors/samantha-evans co-founded Jo Divine, an online sex toy company, with her husband Paul in 2007 which only sells skin safe sex toys and sexual lubricants.
Having a professional background in nursing, she is a features writer and sexual health and pleasure expert for Jo Divine. She works with many healthcare professionals in the NHS and private practice to help them advise their patients about regaining sexual function and enjoying sexual intimacy and pleasure through the use of suitable sex toys, dilators and sexual lubricants.
With an extensive knowledge about sex toys and sexual lubricants, Samantha enjoys creating informative, practical articles about sexual health and pleasure which endeavour to normalise sex, help people to talk about it and discover ways to enjoy sex in whatever way they want to or are able to. She has also been featured extensively in the media
As a menopausal woman she also advises women going through the menopause and beyond about ways to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure as this is often a time when many couples give up on their sex lives due to the impact of menopausal health issues that affect their intimacy and pleasure.
As we get older our sex drive and sexual sensation can change, especially when dealing with a myriad of perimenopausal/menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness or atrophy, decreased sexual sensation or low libido making sex feel painful, uncomfortable or simply not working for you anymore.
Often women give up on sex or continue to endure painful sex which is neither pleasurable, good for their vagina health or their relationship. Women who previously had a good sex life may get frustrated that the menopause has impacted upon their sex life in this way too.
However with a few tweaks to your relationship and the way in which you enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure, you can continue to enjoy sex, even discovering new ways to make it more pleasurable
Talk to your Partner
This is the commonest reasons why couples give up on midlife sex because they are unable to talk to each other. Your partner probably has no idea about how you are feeling and may think you no longer love or desire them so it is important to tell them why you do not want to have sex or why it no longer feels pleasurable.
Over time, our sexual tastes, sensation, stimulation and attraction change so explore new ways to enjoy intimacy. What might have worked for you or your partner in the past may not work now so show each other where and how you like to be touched, make sounds of pleasure to encourage them when they hit the right spot. Try new positions, prolonged foreplay, quickie sex, simple sex toys, enjoy hotel sex, whatever makes you both feel good.
Share your fantasies, you may discover that some of them are the same. You might even want to act some of them out too!
Use A Good Lube!
Vagina dryness affects women of all ages due to hormones, breastfeeding, medication, cancer treatments, stress, anxiety and especially the ageing process.
One simple way to make sex feel pleasurable, last longer and promote vaginal lubrication is to use lubricant. Do not think of lubricants as just fixing a problem, using a good pH balalanced sexual lubricant can make “ok sex” feel great.
I put YES organic oil based lubricant on before foreplay to get things going which really helps, you may only want to apply it for penetrative sex or other sex play, experiment with what works for you. Always stop if sex feels painful.
It may take time to get used to using a sexual lubricant for both you and your partner which is why it is important to use a good sexual lubricant, a product free from irritating ingredients that has been designed for sex play, not something from your bathroom or kitchen cupboard. Many couples try a lubricant, find that it causes irritation or even thrush, think all lubricants are the same which is not the case so avoid lubricants.
Using a pH balanced lubricant such as YES organic lubricants and vaginal moisturisers, free for irritating ingredients not only makes sex feel more pleasurable and last longer but also keeps your vagina and vulva happy and healthy, especially as we get older.
A Healthy Vagina is A Happy Vagina
Many people care about what they eat or use on their face, hair and body but do not give a thought to what they are putting on their vulva and inside their vagina or anus yet these are highly absorbent and sensitive intimate parts of our body.
Having had my own sex life and vagina health destroyed in my 20’s and 30’s by using KY and other well known lubricant brands and feminine hygiene products still available on the high street today which caused recurrent thrush, bacterial vaginosis ( a vaginal infection with a fishy smell which requires anitbiotic treatment), cystitis and urinary tract infections this led to vaginismus whereby the muscles of the vagina constrict, making penetration either impossible or feel painful.
Through my own research and discovering “YES organic lubricants”:https://www.jodivine.com/articles/sex-tips/want-better-sex-use-lube I found that many commercial lubricants/moisturisers and feminine hygiene products contain ingredients including glycerin, propylene glycol, parabens, perfume and dyes in addition to “tingling” or “warming “ ingredients which can irritate the tissues of the vulva and vagina, disrupting the delicate pH of the vagina which may cause thrush or bacterial vaginosis, especially if you are prone to these infections.
Many water based formulations have a high osmolarity so exacerbate vaginal dryness by drawing moisture from the walls of the vagina not hydrating them.
Always check the ingredients before you buy or ask your GP before they prescribe you a product and do a skin test before rubbing it over your clitoris, nothing worse than an itchy or stinging vulva or vagina! Be aware that some well known brands do not put the ingredients on the box or label so choose a product that has an ingredients label.
Feminine hygiene products, scented menstrual products and perfumed condoms are completely unnecessary as our vaginas are self cleaning and all you will do is disrupt the vagina pH which will lead to irritation, an infection and make your vagina/vulva feel sore.
I keep my vagina and vulva happy by using YES oil based organic lubricant for sex and when using sex toys, YES vaginal moisturiser twice weekly and Vagifem, a local oestrogen pessary three times weekly. For those worried about using HRT, local oestrogen is not absorbed systemically (into the bloodstream), it is absorbed directly into the walls of the vagina and into the skin of the vulva, replacing the depleting oestrogen to keep the skin healthy and flexible. The depleting oestrogen makes the tissues of the vagina and vulva shrink and thin, leaving them feeling sore, less well lubricated and the vagina tightens, making penetration feel sore or painful. It can also lead to thrush or other vaginal infections and irritation. Local oestrogen is the equivalent of taking one HRT tablet each year so an incredibly small amount of oestrogen which can make a huge difference to your vagina/vula health and your sexual pleasure too.
Regular Orgasms are Good for You
Orgasms are fun, free and good for your health!
Enjoying regular orgasms with a partner or during solo play using your fingers or a sex toy can increase your vaginal lubrication, help you begin to feel more sexual if you are struggling with your libido, reduce stress, boost immunity, keep you looking young and exercise your pelvic floor. Orgasms can also improve the quality of yoursleep, a common problem during menopause, as the release of feel good endorphins induces a state of relaxation helping you drift off.
Often during menopause our ability to orgasm may take longer or it may not feel as pleasurable so I often recommend using a “simple bullet vibrator”:https://www.jodivine.com/articles/buyers-guides/bullet-vibrators either for solo play or with a partner. Small enough to slip between yourself and your partner, bullets can also be used on partners with a penis and on nipples too.
Men can benefit from enjoying regular orgasms because they can improve prostate health and help to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Regular ejaculation flushes out prostate fluid in the prostate gland which can stagnate and become inflamed leading to an enlarged prostate which causes pain, increases the need to pee and difficulty in emptying the bladder.
Kick start your Libido
Sometimes it can be really hard just to make the effort to have sex so take the focus of penetrative sex if this is how you normally enjoy sex with a partner and enjoy non penetrative sex play. Enjoy kissing, cuddling, body massage, gentle touch with fingers, silky ribbons, feathers, mutual masturbation with a good pH balanced sexual lubricant, nipple play. Having regular orgasms can help to kick start your libido and arousal so indulge in a long bath and take your favourite waterproof sex toy with you, grab some self care time alone or share your sex toy with your partner. Show them how it works for you, use it on their body.
Exercise those Pelvic Floor Muscles
Regular pelvic floor exercises can make orgasms feel stronger and help incontinence issues. However, some women have a tight pelvic floor which can make penetrative sex feel painful. If you are unsure how to do your pelvic floor exercises or if you think you have a weak or tight pelvic floor, a pelvic health physiotherapist is the best person to see. They are the experts in pelvic health and will be able to assess your pelvic floor muscles, offering practical exercises to strengthen or release your pelvic floor. Many work in the NHS so ask your GP to refer you. You can also self refer to those working in private practice too.
Explore Sex Toys
Incorporating sex toys into your sex play can help you enjoy new ways to be intimate and discover new sexual sensations especially if you find yourself struggling to orgasm or it takes longer due to decreased sexual sensation.
A simple bullet vibrator is small enough to slip between you and a partner to enjoy clitoral stimulation during penetrative sex or foreplay. You can use it on yourself, get your partner to use it on you or play with it on their body.If vaginal tightness is an issue, using a slim vibrator or dilator with plenty of lubricant can help stretch the vagina walls, making them more flexible and penetrative sex feel more pleasurable.
Vibrating constriction rings are a great way to help a man maintain his erection, last longer and offer clitoral stimulation at the same .
Sex is not just penetration – enjoying prolongedsex play might be all you want. Explore sex toys, oral sex, bondage, nipple play, mutual masturbation, kissing and intimate massage.
Don’t give up on your sex life, talk to your partner, use a good pH balanced sexual lubricant, masturbate more, explore sex toys, do your pelvic floor exercises, be imaginative, adventurous and have fun in whatever way feels pleasurable for you!
At Jo Divine we believe that sexual health and sexual pleasure go hand in hand and have created a health brochure with suitable products to help people with sexual issues. Working with medical professionals, we hope to encourage patients and HCPs alike in talking more freely about sexual problems. A health issue doesn’t mean your sex life will have to stop!
Thank you Sam for your helpful and informative feature, women will now be informed and have the knowledge to ask their health care professional more questions and gain the correct course of treatment that they rightly deserve.
You can follow Sam on Twitter @SamtalksSex @jodivineuk or via her website for products and information www.jodivine.com / Instagram @Jo.divine
This week’s real life meno 60 seconds interview guest is Jo Moseley, AKA the Paddle board super hero!
Jo is the first woman within the UK to stand up paddleboard – S U P from coast to coast!!
One awesome real-life meno warrior!!!
Since turning 50, Jo has begun her personal quest and journey of paddleboarding and helping to clean up the environment along the waterways as she travels. Jo takes you on a journey aboard her paddleboard, giving you a refreshing view of life upon the UK’s waterways, scenery, seasons, every type of weather and the wildlife she encounters along the way. Her passion is clear and is infectious, making you feel that you too could jump on a paddleboard, enjoy nature and join her on her mission to help make a difference to the environment.
Jo is passionate about the environment and is actively involved in the #2minutebeachclean and also an active member of the wave project, a surf therapy charity for children in the UK.
This year saw Jo complete the #paddleboardthenorthchallenge!! It was a joy to follow her adventures via social media. Adding to Jo’s talents and comitment to her cause she has just won the 2019 Smart award for Best Bradford Film!! Congratulations Jo we are all behind you, all the way!
Nothing is going to stop Jo, not even menopause! She is enjoying this stage of her life and being able to experience the freedom, joy, exhilaration and the feeling of being alive out on the water. Read Jo’s menopause journey and how she has found a new sense of energy and zest for life.
Jo Moseley @Healthyhappy50 #2minutebeachclean #paddleboardthenorth 2019 Smart Award winner Best Bradford Film
1) Best Part of menopause?
Ooh interesting! I think because the perimenopause broke me when I was already down, the healing & learning is the best part. I had to start looking after myself because I was at such a low point & that has been an interesting & empowering journey. I’ve made friendships, learned skills, gone on adventures & found my creative & personal voice.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Ooh I think paddleboarding into Goole this summer in a huge thunderstorm followed by a beautiful rainbow. I had completed my 162 mile coast to coast fundraising & litter picking adventure. As the first woman to do so & at 54, it made me feel like I had achieved something not just for me but for women in their 50s and those going through the menopause.
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Sleepless nights, crippling anxiety, joint pains & feeling like I was lost.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treatyour menopause?
I haven’t really been treated with either route. I’ve researched & found my own answers. I am however aware that I am very fortunate in that I’ve been able to do this. If I were to seek treatment, it would be NHS.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
I haven’t really needed to ask for support. I work in a very kind environment anyway so I am fortunate. My colleagues do comment on how warm I like to keep my office and why I am wearing 3 jumpers in summer! I get cold flushes!
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior toPerimenopause and Menopause?
Look after yourself more! Put yourself on the priority list! Move, say no to things that don’t bring you joy, stop volunteering for everything, be kinder to yourself, go to bed early. You don’t have to be superwoman! Also read up on the perimenopause & what it’s all about. You think you have to do everything on your own as a single Mum but you don’t. It’s ok to ask for help. Look after your bone health!
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Ooh I hope taking women out on the water on Paddleboarding retreats, litter picking, stretching & having delicious food. Helping women feel like warrior women on the water. Spending more time at the coast & in the sea. Writing & speaking about adventures, wellbeing in menopause & midlife purpose & reinvention.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too?
Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
Ooh great question! Definitely a shout out to Deborah Garlick of Henpicked. I think they were the first online community I discovered who even talked about the menopause openly. I learned so much and was grateful to contribute to their book. That was 4 or 5 years ago. Rachel from Magnificent Midlife has been sharing huge amounts of very valuable information for years too. Also Jo & Anne from Positive Pause and Jane from Meno & Me for inviting me to talk at their respective menopause events this autumn. A privilege & honour. Angela from Behind The Woman is brilliant too. My friend Sam Bunch who wrote a fab, funny book Menopause – A Hot Topic. Basically, we are lifting and supporting each other.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Ooh Jane Dowling. She gives 110% every day on social media. Sharing her journey, answering questions, supporting and just being incredible. Her exercise videos on Instagram are so helpful. Such a star!
Thank you Jo for your story, we are looking forward to hearing about your sup adventures! The retreats sound great, keep us all posted.
You can keep up to date with Jo’s adventures and follow her at;
Twitter @Healthyhappy50
Instagram @healthyhappy50
Would you like to be our next real-life meno 60 seconds interview guest?
Christmas is fast approaching, the season will soon be upon us, how does this make you feel menos?
Are you already feeling the burden of all the season necessities falling on your shoulders?
Are you aware of what is giving you stress or anxiety for the christmas season?
This week give yourself some time to sit down and make a christmas plan to help you manage through christmas, identify what is already causing you stress?
Make a plan to delegate jobs, if you are sharing christmas with family members. Schedule in time for you to take a break, a walk in the fresh air, a quiet time to read a christmas novel or magazine. Set yourself limits as to how you want to spend christmas, practice self care even if it means you need to take a nap if your body is tired!
Remember how important selfcare is when managing menopause symptoms and how to look after yourself with some early nights, healthy eating and exercise this will all help to make you feel so much better.
Have a super week Menos, wishing everyone a healthy, happy and safe Christmas! stay positive, stay safe!
Wash hands, wear a mask and keep you 2m distance. Be kind to one another and give your support!
It was great news that Endometriosis has received much needed publicity and support from the UK Government this recently.
This was urgently needed for the many women who experience this debilitating disease.
I would like to bring to people’s attention a disease that goes along with endometriosis, which is Adenomyosis. Little is known or discussed about this condition. Many doctors are unaware or know how to treat this disease.
Symptoms worsen over time and many women have no symptoms.
Causes of Adenomyosis:
Genetic / hereditary
Damage from uterine surgery – examples of uterine surgery include a D&C (dilation and curette) or c-section
A fault occurring when your uterus was forming in utero.
I was diagnosed with Adenomyosis just before my early menopause diagnosis. I had never heard of this condition before only Endometriosis.
The physical symptoms were explained but I was not really given the correct care that I should have received at that time. The condition then seemed to disappear and was not causing any alarm bells. As I was in early menopause and I genuinely believed that this disease had seized due to my hormones being non existent. I have since discovered this year during the first lockdown, Adenomyosis does not disappear it has moments of flare ups.
April of this year I had to visit to A&E during the first lockdown with regards to my hormones!! This lockdown I will be having a operation to find out what is happening to my womb.
It was incredibly painful, traumatic and it came all of a sudden and was a big shock it really derailed me, physically and emotionally.
After trying various forms of HRT, last year I was fitted with a HRT implant. It appeared to be working for a short time.
I had taken a break from HRT to reset my body as advised by my Consultant.
This was manageable, albeit with some minor symptoms. It was just before the time that the first lockdown arrived that my insomnia and various other menopause symptoms reappeared. It was agreed that I should start with some HRT again. A regime of patches and a new progesterone that I had not tried before called Provera.
I then started with HRT and all seemed well, I could feel some improvement.
I felt good and I could feel a difference to my overall wellbeing.
Everything appeared normal, the spotting had stopped. After taking the progesterone, there was no bleeding. I simply put this down to having had so much spotting of blood previously that there was going to be no bleed caused by the progesterone for the month of April 2020.
A week or so after taking Provera, I suddenly became very cold, I could not get warm and became white in colour. The following day I was extremely tired and feeling out of sorts, not myself, but I put this down to the current lockdown environment of being stuck at home and the stress affecting me.
I was awoken during the early hours of the following morning with the most excruciating pain along the right side of my body that radiated down my right leg. The pain came in a crescendo of waves and was making me feel physically sick. I immediately took strong painkillers to ease the pain. This took some time to work and I then felt ok to carry on with my day as usual.
By mid morning around 11am I was unable to stand, talk or think the pain again came in waves of incredible pain. I called my Doctor to ask what was happening to me? I had never experienced so much pain and the bleeding which had now started was becoming very heavy.
My Doctor arranged painkillers and medication to help me with the pain and bleeding. I was exhausted and weak, I could not think straight, concentrate or move around. I remained in bed for three days. I was totally bed ridden by this sudden traumatic pain and heavy bleeding.
After four days the bleeding subsided as did the pain and I was starting to feel somewhat better. Later that day during a phone call to a friend, I became very teary and emotional. Very sudden and unlike me? After our conversation ended I stood up from the floor and there in front of me was a puddle of blood on the floor. I had started to bleed and had soaked through my underwear, sanitary ware and clothes.
I immediately went to the bathroom to change, at this stage I passed a large clot which then put me into a state of shock. What was happening to me?
Thankfully my friend called be back to check in on me as it was very unlike me to get so teary. Once I told her what had happened she told me to call 111 straight away.
After talking to the Nurse during my phone call with 111 I was advised to go straight to my local A&E dept. I could not make sense of what was happening to me at all. I was coping ok the best that I could considering lockdown and in the midst of the pandemic. How could my hormones be doing this to me now?
I felt so dreadful that I knew I had to go to hospital to be checked over. It was a very strange journey as I was not sure if I was going to be kept in hospital, if I needed an operation if I would come out of hospital? What if I caught coronavirus? How could my body be doing this to me at this time.
Management has been in the form of changing my diet to a plant base lifestyle and with a huge detox of products, deodorant, toothpaste, shower gel and hair products. No caffeine since May!
Self care and listening to my body. Thankfully no more pain as before but the bleeding still is present and can be so tiring.
I gave up alcohol for 6 weeks during the summer which helped and now I only drink one or two glasses of wine during the weekend. Which is nothing that excessive. Sugar and processed carbs were the trickiest to give up.
I also made a decision to stop my HRT as I noticed there was a cycle of pain, then bleeding and as soon as I stopped with HRT the pain eased. mixture of diet and lifestyle, At present the pain has not returned, but I know now what to expect and what to do.
I have found a very helpful Facebook Groups of a wide range of adenomyosis fighters and endometriosis warriors who are all facing their own battle daily with these chronic diseases.
I have also discovered a fantastic surgeon who is dedicated and committed to helping women with Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, he is based in New York. Dr Vidali can be reached through social media and he has a You Tube channel, which I have added his video below for you to watch and discover more about the illness and what treatments are available.
I would like to raise more awareness for women to gain the correct treatment and support to help with being diagnosed with Adenomyosis.
Credit The Endometriosis Network – Canada
Symptoms as a result of having adenomyosis may include:
Low iron and anaemia
Severe menstruation cramps
abdominal pain
lower back pain
pain during intercourse
pelvic pain
pain radiating down legs
pains/aches muscles
abodiminal pressure
bloating/swelling
enlarged uterus
ovulation pain
heavy menstrual bleeding
prolonged menstrual bleeding
blood clots
spotting between periods
difficulties passing urine
passing urine frequently
sudden urge to urinate
irregular bowel movement
painful bowel movements
constipation
diarrohea
nausea
fatigue
infertility
mood swings
depression
insomnia
low quality of life
Some women may experience all symptoms or a variation. Endometriosis, adhesions and fibroids may also be present with adenomyosis. Ensure that you are checked for these conditions if you suspect you may have Adenomyosis.
Treatment for Adenomyosis –
Progesterone releasing Intrauterine device IUD – Mirena – thinning of the endometrium. A reduction in the size of the uterus. Reducing bleeding and pain during intercourse.
GnRH – an artifical hormone used to prevent natural ovulation. Thinning of the endometrium, a reduction in size of the uterus. Creating a temporary menopause and stopping periods.
Hysterectomy – complete removal of the uterus and adenomyosis.
PeriMenoPost last Sunday evening joined Endometriosis South Coast, Founder Jodie Hughes for a Facebook LIVE conversation surrounding endometriosis and adenomyosis. Head over to our Facebook page to watch.https://www.facebook.com/Perimenopost
PeriMenoPost is not medically trained, please seek medical expert help if you are suffering from any of the above symptoms.Credit – Dr Vidali – @endometriosis_surgeon Instagram / @Drvidali – Twitter / Andrea Vidali MD Facebook
Catch up on all PeriMenoPost podcasts, Season 3 is currently in process. Many more pods for you to enjoy and join in the menopause conversation with myself and guest speakers. If you would like to be featured as a guest within the pod
Find out how Pilates can help you through the stages of perimenopause and menopause?
A great form of exercise for reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, strengthening bones, flexibility. Working your core muscles and engaging your pelvic floor, which is very important to strengthen throughout these stages with the lowering oestrogen levels the pelvic floor becomes weaker.
Come along and join in a class and give it a try for yourself!
Classes taught online via zoom in the comfort of your own home.
First two classes are free sign up today for more information [email protected]
PeriMenoPost Business MemberYES CO Discount Code to use PMPYES10 www.yesyesyes.orgEvery Thursday evening join PeriMenoPost for a Twitter Hour at 6.3pm UK Discuss all things menopausePromensil UK – PeriMenoPost Business Member Discount CODE – PMP20
Stay safe and be kind to each other during this lockdown. Keep talking to friends, family and colleagues we will all come through these times stronger!!
The past week and during the weekend has raised more awareness for #WorldMentalHealthDay2020. A much needed conversation to take place and creating a presence within social media. Opening up discussions to ensure that we are talking about our mental health needs how important our mental health and how to support one another during these times.
This year our mental health has been affected in many ways; from the lack of human connection, missing everyday conversations, our worries for the future, our survival, wellbeing and health concerns for our families and friends.
Many women have also experienced an increase of their menopause symptoms. The added stress and anxieties can also affect your symptoms on top of this already incredibly stressful time.
The lowering levels of oestrogen during the stages of perimenopause/menopause can result in feelings of;
low moods.
sudden rage.
fatigue.
overwhelm.
anxiety.
palpitations.
Try to grab some fresh air each day, take a scenic walk in nature and plug yourselves into an empowering or calming podcast. Lose yourself in nature, focus on breathing and create some time for you to practice self care and to ease your mind. Seek medical expert help if you are experiencing serious symptoms and talk to a good friend, your partner or a helpline dedicated to helping mental health.
We are pleased to feature Ros Thompson, https://remediesbyros.com/ A Bach Flower Practitioner, Reflexologist and Reiki Master.
A previous PeriMenoPost Podcast guest. Ros has kindly written an article to share with you meno’s, here inside this week’s blog.
PeriMenoPost would like to endorse Ros Thompson’s remedies, tried and tested!!!!!
They really do help!!!
I found my remedy particularly helpful whilst avoiding HRT during Covid-19. Ros provides a 1:1 consultation with you and prepares a bespoke remedy just for you, to help you with your exact needs!
All sent to you in the post and you also receive a follow up call.
A dedicated and fantastic service!!
Ros has explained the specific flowers and how they can help you with emotions and symptoms during the rocky rollercoaster ride of all stages of menopause. Ros shares her own journey and has great advice and wisdom to offer to you. Enjoy, Meno’s!!!
Bach Flower Remedies and the Menopause – how they can help!
I am a Bach Flower Practitioner – for those of you who are unaware of these remedies – you may have heard of Rescue Remedy, this is frequently used for shock and trauma and widely available on the high street, the little known fact is that there are another 38 remedies all of which can help to relieve the negative emotions and feelings that we feel throughout our lifes
Covid 19 and the lockdown brought a shortage of HRT products that were available to those women who were in a lot ways totally dependent on them just to get through the day. Through the networking that I did back at the beginning of lockdown I discovered how many there were problems with menopausal symptoms and also how many women were looking to find alternative ways of dealing with this natural phenomenon.
I personally experienced the menopause at 33 (30 years ago) after many years of ovarian cysts and emergency surgery for the cysts that had burst. At the time little was known about alternative treatments and I was supplied with HRT as a matter of course, I didn’t even question it. I have to say I felt amazing and 100% better. However, 6 months later following a check up it was found that I had the developed breast lumps and sadly breast cancer as well. Off the HRT I came and down the slippery slope I went. Cut a long story very short – I came through and was fine but sadly am now suffering from osteopenia as a result of poor bone density and lack of advice and information.
The feelings and experiences of women vary dramatically but within this article I am going to be giving a generalised overview of the remedies that I would recommend to help you through – naturally totally dependent on your personal feelings and situation. Also, some general suggestions as to what you can do to help yourself and things to ask your GP.
First and foremost if you are looking to avoid HRT I would suggest you look at the supplements that are important to you, Black Cohosh is renowned for helping with hot flushes but give it time to work. One month will not be sufficient. Find yourself a good supply of Fish Oil – either through a diet of oily fish 9 at least 3 portions per week, or through supplement – linseed can also help as well. Look at your levels of Vitamin D as well as these can help hugely with bone density but take advice from your GP as well to avoid other complications.
Relating to your emotions the remedies I have to offer are as follows: –
Walnut – is our key remedy to help with your way through the menopausal time, this remedy will help protect you from the emotional feelings that this period produces, it is a great leveller and will protect your emotions from outside influences.
Impatiens – very often the menopause can cause huge frustration and irritation within you – little things created within the family home can become mountains and result in major upset – Impatiens will free you from this.
Holly – the anger that can often occur and results from menopausal symptoms – holly will allow you to maintain a calm and peaceful attitude and generally feel much better about all going on around you.
Star of Bethlehem – this is a remedy for shock or trauma and is very useful where the menopause is early in life and for some women it can leave them feeling devastated and this beautiful remedy can just simply restore your sense of calm.
Mimulus – fear of the known – this may seem odd but if you are struggling to come to terms with your diagnosis, some women actually resent it and they are frightened as it signals to them old age and they find this very difficult to manage. Here Mimulus is a hugely beneficial remedy – to help you find the courage to move forward and face this new phase in your life.
Larch – a remedy for confidence – some women find that this time reduces them to complete emotional wrecks, this beautiful remedy is there for you to restore your self esteem and allow you accept the fact that you can do all that you need and want to do.
The above is just a brief summary of some of the remedies that are key for your possible symptoms – there are 38 in total and amongst them I am sure we can find something to make your life better – one step at a time.
You can listen our recent podcast with Ros Thompson – season 2 episode 5.
We discuss the powerful benefits of Bach flower remedies. Her personal journey of menopause and surgery for a hysterectomy, whilst running a home with small children and building her corporate career.
In our latest podcast I talk with the fabulous Michelle Zelli, a PeriMenoPost Member, a well renowned London life coach. Packing a punch with her inspiration, wisdom, intuition and her personal menopause journey. Offering her top tips and motivation for helping you through perimenopause and menopause. Grab your earphones Menos!
You can listen right here to all PeriMenoPost Podcasts!
PeriMenoPost is talking to Julie Conlan, Founder of multi award winning Secret Whispers – kegel kit. A PeriMenoPost Member and fellow #SBS Winner. Join us as discuss all things pelvic floor and how important it is to connect with your pelvic floor before menopause arrives. Julie was horrified to learn that women are led to believe it is “normal” to cross their legs when they laugh or sneeze. That urine incontinence after childbirth is almost expected is challenging the message of multi-national companies, profiting from the sale of incontinence pads, that bladder weakness is normal. Dedicated and a passionate to dramatically reduce the current statistics of 50% of women who suffer from incontinence with providing education and support on the importance of Kegel exercises. Secret Whispers is a women’s healthcare company and has been named top 100 trail blazing small business in UK Winner and was invited to the House of Lords! Julie is also a keen supporter of the charity Sling the Mesh and proceeds from the sale of the Kegel kits go to the charity to help women who are experiencing pain and incontinence support. To order your very own set of Kegels, PeriMenoPost followers can use a discount code – PERIMENOPOST12 Use the code when ordering to receive a 12% discount code. As we enter another lockdown, take some time for yourself and unwind. Discover more about pelvic floor health and join in our conversation to #UndoTheMenoTaboo If you would like to contact Julie you can reach her at the following links or via PeriMenoPost.com https://www.facebook.com/SecretWhispersUK/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/PelvicFloorAndCoreHealthWithSecretWhispers/ https://www.instagram.com/secretwhispersuk/ www.secretwhispers.co.uk [email protected] Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.
PeriMenopost launched 2020 Menopause Survival Guide with PeriMenoPost Member – Michelle Zelli over at the gram.
An evening of cocktails, kombucha’s and conversations surrounding Menopause. The importance of acceptance, wisdom and the power of the sentence NO!
How important self-care is during the changes that occur during these hormonal changes. We discussed the changes before and after puberty, after childbirth. The stage of a woman’s life of perimenopause and menopause, that it is a time of discovery and how to power your way through!
Michelle shared her own personal experience of the rocky rollercoaster ride of menopause. How she coped, full of all her top tips and advice.
Explaining that this stage of life is the most exciting adventure and how to own it!
We will be running a series of 2020 MENOPAUSE SURVIVAL GUIDES from now until the end of 2020. Sharing our tips and advice to help you survive the rest of this year with your mind and body in a stronger way of coping and helping you to surviveCatch up – 2020 MENOPAUSE SURIVIVAL GUIDE WITH PERIMENOPOST AND MICHELLE ZELLI IGTV /YOUTUBE Add block
HRT – all you need to know Wednesday 14th Oct 1pm Instagram LIVE – Join us!
PeriMenoPost recently held an Instagram LIVE with our PMP business club Member; Mr Vikram Talauliker, Menopause Clinic, London.
Mr Vikram Talauliker explained the symptoms of perimenopause. The varying length of time it can take for some women, from the stages of perimenopause to entering into menopause.
Emphasising that you need to assess your quality of life and how important your needs are, all to be taken into consideration prior to taking HRT.
We also discussed early menopause and taking HRT treatment is safe to do so for an early menopause, the health benefits ensure you are giving your body the best treatment possible.
Helpful advice of how to gain a referral from your GP to ask to see a menopause specialist.
As a menopause specialist and certified trainer Mr Vikram Talaulikar explained how at this current time the British Menopause Society are making the necessary changes needed for GP’s to help women with menopause. This is much welcomed news and provides assurance that menopause is being given the attention it is currently in need of.
We touched on different forms of the forms of HRT, we will be discussing this in more depth at our next upcoming LIVE. The first of may LIVES with Menopause Clinic, London.
We will be LIVE at the gram on Wednesday 14th October 2020 at 1pm talking with Mr Vikram Talauliker, of Menopause Clinic, London.
Join us!
You can ask your HRT related questions and we will answer your questions to help you.
Secret Whispers is a multi Award winning 6 step kegel kit.
Founder Julie Conlan, a busy mum, a fitness and health enthusiast who is passionate and determined to help women regain their pelvic floor health. #dontforgetyourpelvicfloor
Her mission is to reduce the current statistics of women who suffer from incontinence providing education and support.
We are looking forward to discovering more of Julie’s top tips and advice to share with our PeriMenoPost followers.
#PMPHour – your very own Twitter Hour dedicated to all stages of Menopause. Thursday evenings 6.30pm – come along and say hi!
Every Thursday evening 6.30pm #PMPHour
Sunday 18th October 2020 will be #WorldMenopause day. There will be plenty of fabulous events including PeriMenoPost events all day over at Instagram. Keep posted of our events on PeriMenoPost social media posts, plenty of exciting talks and a new “service” launch for PeriMenoPost!!
If you would like to be a guest speaker within PeriMenoPost Podcasts, we would love to hear from you – please email [email protected]
Have a super week Meno’s, stay on track, stay calm and say NO!
Having just recently turned 49, this number had become uncomfortable.
Perhaps it is another reminder of one’s ageing on top of the rocky roller coaster ride through midlife managing those “Menopause symptoms”
Since my birthday, I am surprised that it is a whole new feeling!!
A sort of power surge.
This past year has been a great year for myself personally, albeit under difficult circumstances during corona virus, it has been a strange time.
Upon reflection I have been very fortunate to experience an achievement just prior to lockdown.
Looking back, 48 was in fact a good year, I remained determined to try my best with my health, fitness. Building both of my businesses – PeriMenoPost and Lorna Ive Media.
Life was fun, busy, family and my great group of friends.
Photo – JIn Rathod Imagery / Katarina Salmon /Miss Great Britain/ Athena Theatre Feb 2020
At the age of 48 I applied to enter the first ever Ms Great Britain 2020!
This was the highlight of the year for me, it was the best experience of my life!!
I was completely out of my comfort zone but boy am I glad I did it!!
I had applied to the most famous pageant contest in the UK and I had casually told myself,” you’re too old to gain a place” I did not expect at all to be considered, mainly because of my age. Which I know is wrong but in the midst of midlife and menopause it can affect a woman’s confidence and self esteem.
It was during Christmas 2019 that I had the fantastic news that I had indeed been chosen as a finalist!!
I was full of excitement and was overjoyed!!
Suddenly I became incredibly anxious, how was I going to do this!
A complete novice in the world of pageantry.
How was I going to complete the catwalk, swimwear rounds and being on stage. I was completely terrified!
The team at Miss Great Britain, were fantastic with their support and positivity!! They were great at making me realise that I could achieve this and what an amazing feeling and achievement it would be afterwards, they were correct!
Looking back now it helped that the finals came around so quickly, I became so busy with preparations and the excitement that the nerves disappeared somewhat as the final approached.
As a complete beginner in the world of pageantry contests, a nervous novice. I did not know what to expect. I had no reason to be nervous as I was welcomed into the pageant family with such warmth and kindness, truly inspiring, young women who made me feel welcome and accepted. Within the group I can honestly say my age did not hinder me or isolate me in any way. I found the experience incredibly liberating and such a confidence giving boost which was great for my self esteem!
Why had I not entered before?
The finals took place within weeks prior of lockdown in February 2020 and held at the Athena Theatre in Leicester.
Photo – Jin Rathod/Katarina Salmon/Miss Great Britian/Athena Theatre
I will never forget my experience of that first night with all the pageant girls, so friendly and confident! Spray tans, hair, make up, sore feet as I hardly wear high heels! Rehearsing, dancing, catwalk and meeting a fantastic group of young women who have now become close friends.
Jen Atkin and April Banbury were crowned this year’s queens and deservedly so, they are such beautiful young women!
It was all throughly worth it!
I would do it all over again, I am completely hooked to the pageant way of life and looking forward to meeting the pageant famalam once it is safe to do so!
Photo – Jin Rathod Imagery/Katarina Salmon/Miss Great Britain/Athena Theatre
I wanted to show that midlife and menopause does not have to define you, a role model to show that you can take those opportunities that come along in life and live life to the full!
I am so pleased I took the plunge and the boost to my confidence and self esteem was fantastic, the experience will remain with me forever!
Small Business Advert
Season one podcasts are available to listen across Spotify, google podcasts, itune podcasts and apple podcasts.
Season two is nearly completed with some exciting guests discussing the ups and downs of midlife and menopause. Stay tuned for season two.
**Small Business Advert**
**Small Business Advert**
Sign up to receive your PeriMenoPost monthly Newsletter detailing all exciting new projects and information- [email protected]
Have a great week, Menos – stay safe and keep active!!!
Have you found yourself saying no to certain foods and alcohol? Join the club!
Have you noticed when you have had that takeaway, that seemed inviting at the time but then disagrees with you during the early hours of the morning? A night of disturbed sleep and feeling awful the next morning? Ringing any bells yet?
Let’s add alcohol to the mix too, those glasses of wine that again seemed a really good idea at the time but then you find yourself wide awake from 2am and cannot get back to sleep, does any of this sound familiar?
During the day has your appetite fluctuated? Suddenly you can be ravenously hungry and then not the next? Then you find it’s all too easy to fall into bad snacking habits. This all happened to me, at a time when I had no idea that I was Perimenopausal. I could not understand what was happening to me if I am honest.
Once you know that it is your hormones that are affecting you in this way, it seems to be easier to manage. I have had to change my diet habits and so far it has worked for me. I make better choices now when it comes to food at home and ordering food whilst out. Now and again the odd takeaway, then I will order something light to eat. I am not perfect 100% of the time, but then who is? I just try to be more careful and manage what I can and cannot eat. I definitely feel so much better for eating more carefully now. During this change when your body is going through such a lot of transition it is so important that your body is in good shape and why not? Eating healthy is much better for us and we want to enjoy our next stage! Right?
Personally, I have found that a varied diet of eating lean meat, fish with fresh vegetables and salads with small amounts of pasta or carbohydrates works best for me. Red meat only once a week, alcohol limiting to just the weekend, the odd 1 or 2 glasses of wine or a cheeky G&T.
Immune Boosting Juice 1 Carrot 1/2 Beetroot 1/2 Lemon – Juice 1/4 of Ginger 1/2 pineapple 1/2 orange – juice 1tbsp – Manuka Honey
Prepare all ingredients Pop into Juicer/blender Whizz and go!
Over the festive session the chance of having one to many drinks can increase, and this year will be no exception. We may not be going out, but I, like many do enjoy a drink in the comfort of my own home, and we all know that home measures can often be more generous than the ones in the pub, well, I know mine are.
Okay, so you have indulged just a little bit too much, you wake in the morning with beer fear, your mouth is as dry as the Sahara Desert, you have a banging headache, you feel sick, and to top it all off, your anxiety is peaking.
We all have our tried and trusted methods to help combat the inevitable hangover from hell, my own personal remedies include a pint of electrolytes, a load of carbs, and shot of CBD. Since using CBD as part of my recovery, I have found that my hangover improves much quicker, so it got me thinking and then researching. Can CBD help with hangover symptoms?
Can CBD help with your Headaches?
Small Business AD
A headache from too much alcohol can range from a dull ache to a vice like grip, and dehydration is usually one of the main reasons for your headache. Your body is working overtime to flush out the alcohol and this usually leaves you chronically dehydrated. I think everyone knows that feeling of reaching for a glass of water in the morning after a few drinks the night before, but, did you know, that by adding in a few drops of water soluble CBD to your drink, it might just provide the perfect combination to rehydrate and help ease that nagging headache.
Many studies have shown the positive effect of CBD on headaches or migraines, this is due to the anti-inflammatory properties, which is useful in helping reduce any kind of pain including head pain, often associated with hangover headaches. If you would like to read, click the link >> can CBD help migraine and headaches?
Can CBD help with Nausea?
Small Business AD
When you consume alcohol, enzymes in your liver break down the alcohol into acetaldehyde, if these levels become too high, your liver will be unable to cope, and can react by making you sick. Alcohol can also irritate the stomach wall causing inflammation which can often making you feel nauseous.
In studies CBD has shown to help relive nausea and help reduce inflation which is why it may help your hangover.
Peppermint is well documented in helping settle an upset tummy and our Peppermint CBD oil tincture would be perfect to help easy nausea.
CBD and Anxiety
Small Business AD
Have you experienced beer fear? Not just the ‘what did I do last night’ fear but the increase in anxiety the day after a few drinks?
There have been many studies that show strong evidence that CBD can help in the treatment of anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (O.C.D), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (P.T.S.D). Read full article here>> CBD to help anxiety
Taking CBD can help with your anxiety after drink, it really could make it a valuable hangover remedy.
Conclusion
I am not suggesting that CBD is the solution to end all hangovers (I wish it was), but it may provide a helping hand in reducing some of the symptoms often associated with a hangover and the speed in which you feel better.
Continue to drink plenty of water, eat nutritious food, and taking a few drops of CBD may just do the trick. So, if this Christmas you overindulge a little, maybe think about adding some CBD to your hangover cure toolbox.
All Leaf Organics products are a food supplement only and should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet. Leaf Organics products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Keep out of the reach of young children. Always read the label. All products contain less than 0.1% THC.LEAF ORGANICS
Season 1 & 2 Small Business AD
Tune in over the festive season and listen in to Season 1 & 2 of PeriMenoPost Podcasts bringing to you real life stories and talks with experts about how to manage and survive the stages of menopause.
Season 3 will be launching very soon….https://anchor.fm/perimenopost/embed#?secret=W9SOmcy7x7Catchup with all episodes here
Calling all women’s health brands and services within the menopause industry If you would like to join PeriMenoPost Membership club. Dm today hello@perimenopost.com discover how we can help your business to grow further and reach women in need of menopause support.
PeriMenoPost Member Endometriosis SouthCoast – quote PeriMenoPost Small Biz Ad
Karen Lingard is a PeriMenoPost follower.
Karen would like to share her story with you to help other women by talking about the words “perimenopause and menopause”
Karen Lingard
Karens real life menopause journey, told by Karen, herself.
My journey began a couple of years ago, I started to put on some weight and was then not able to lose it. I noticed I was sweating more, than the usual. I never thought this had anything to do with menopause, I still felt far too young. I am 51 years old now, I feel that this age is a blessing. I began to hide my age and I didn’t really want to admit to getting older. Last year I started to feel that something was not right, upon the left side of my tummy, a slight swelling appeared. I was also experiencing really bad acid reflux which was making me feel quite nauseous a lot of the time.
I was always tired, with no energy. I knew something was wrong but didn’t know what it could be. I kept visiting my Doctor but they insisted it was acid reflux. A blood test revealed that I was anaemic due to the heavy periods I had endured. Having had a colonoscopy and endoscopy, I still felt unwell. My lower back and my joints were burning and were very painful, my Doctor sent me to have x rays and ct scans, just to be sure that there was nothing sinister happening. During this point, I became quite anxious I became convinced that it was something sinister as I knew my own body. I was given anxiety tablets from my doctor. I had never experienced anxiety before, I had never suffered with stress. I just knew there was something more.
I could not eat fatty foods, this would make me feel sick, my joints became painful and with a burning sensation. It was affecting my quality of life, work and my family life. I decided to pay privately for more scans and tests. My results showed that I was suffering from endometriosis and that I was in fact perimenopausal. Once treated for endometriosis, I began my own research of how to manage perimenopause. After reading Meg Matthews website, it seemed to mirror my own personal experience. During those four months, I had a feeling that I was going mad. I laugh now with friends about my A&E trips as I genuinely believed something was seriously wrong with me. I’m usually a rational person, but it seemed to take over my life. I manage my symptoms with taking regular vitamins to help, such as 3000mg of evening primrose per day, magnesium, cod liver oil, vitamins, vitamin D and calcium. Eating a healthy diet helps, ensuring that I eat all the right foods. I manage my symptoms with plenty of regular exercise and looking after my health and well being.
A big thank you to Karen Lingard, for sharing her personal journey of endometriosis and perimenopause. We can relate with Karen’s story with many doctor trips, A&E and interestingly diet too was a factor. If you are experiencing symptoms, NICE guidelines online gives a guide on menopause to help you.
PeriMenoPost will now be featuring every week within our blog a real life interview with one of our cherished followers. A bit of fun, embracing and accepting a positive attitude towards menopause and spreading the word that it’s ok and normal to discuss menopause.
#UndoTheMenoTaboo
Karen Lingard
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life
#Menowarriors – Karen Lingard
1) Best Part of menopause?
Able to understand, talk and accept my coming to terms with menopause.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
My funniest #Menomoment, upon reflection and which I now laugh about has to be the trips to A&E . Friends joke, telling me that I am barred from A&E!
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
The bloating and change to my body.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
Initially self funding privately, I am now treated within NHS.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
Yes.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
Natural.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you, prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Information and awareness would have helped me during this time, as I felt I was in the dark.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Same, I’m now in a much happier, healthier place.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – a mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
Finding Meg Matthews website, http://www.megsmenopause.com – I stumbled upon her Instagram page. Bupa healthcare were very helpful.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Meg Matthews
Created by PeriMenoPost
If you would like to be interviewed for our weekly real life Meno 60 second interview,
I for one, was not expecting this to happen to myself during lockdown.
A trip to A&E with regards to my hormones!!
It came all of a sudden and was a big shock which has really derailed me, physically and emotionally.
After trying various forms of HRT, last year I was fitted with a HRT implant. It appeared to be working, I had a feeling it had stopped working and was told it had not been working since November 2019.
I had taken a break from HRT to reset my body as advised by my Consultant. This was manageable, albeit with some minor symptoms. It was just before the time that lockdown arrived that my insomnia and various other menopause symptoms reappeared. It was agreed that I should start with some HRT again. A regime of patches and a new progesterone that I had not tried before called Provera.
I had been experiencing spotting since November 2019, which I had been relaying all my symptoms with my consultant,
I then started with HRT and all seemed well, I could feel some improvement.
I felt good and I could feel a difference to my overall wellbeing.
Everything appeared normal, the spotting had stopped. After taking the progesterone, there was no bleeding. I simply put this down to having had so much spotting of blood previously that there was going to be no bleed caused by the progesterone for the month of April 2020.
A week or so after taking Provera, I suddenly became very cold, I could not get warm and became white in colour. The following day I was extremely tired and feeling out of sorts, not myself, but I put this down to the current lockdown environment of being stuck at home and the stress affecting me.
I was awoken during the early hours of the following morning with the most excruciating pain along the right side of my body that radiated down my right leg. The pain came in a crescendo of waves and was making me feel physically sick. I immediately took strong painkillers to ease the pain. This took some time to work and I then felt ok to carry on with my day as usual.
By mid morning around 11am I was unable to stand, talk or think the pain again came in waves of incredible pain. I called my Doctor to ask what was happening to me? I had never experienced so much pain and the bleeding which had now started was becoming very heavy.
My Doctor arranged painkillers and medication to help me with the pain and bleeding. I was exhausted and weak, I could not think straight, concentrate or move around. I remained in bed for three days. I was totally bed ridden by this sudden traumatic pain and heavy bleeding.
After four days the bleeding subsided as did the pain and I was starting to feel somewhat better. Later that day during a phone call to a friend, I became very teary and emotional. Very sudden and unlike me? After our conversation ended I stood up from the floor and there in front of me was a puddle of blood on the floor. I had started to bleed and had soaked through my underwear, sanitary ware and clothes.
I immediately went to the bathroom to change, at this stage I passed a large clot which then put me into a state of shock. What was happening to me?
Thankfully my friend called be back to check in on me as it was very unlike me to get so teary. Once I told her what had happened she told me to call 111 straight away.
After talking to the Nurse during my phone call with 111 I was advised to go straight to my local A&E dept. I could not make sense of what was happening to me at all. I was coping ok the best that I could considering lockdown and in the midst of the pandemic. How could my hormones be doing this to me now?
I felt so dreadful that I knew I had to go to hospital to be checked over. It was a very strange journey as I was not sure if I was going to be kept in hospital, if I needed an operation if I would come out of hospital? What if I caught coronavirus? How could my body be doing this to me at this time.
You can only enter A&E on your own currently because of covid-19.
I was feeling so weak and very unwell that I felt I needed someone with me, I was treated very professionally and with care from the health care professionals.
My blood was taken and tested, I was asked if I was pregnant!
To be pretty sure this was not on my radar!
I had a stern talking with myself during my journey to the hospital, that if I needed to have an operation that night, then so be it.
My blood count and blood tests came back ok, I was not allowed to be admitted to hospital because of Covid-19. I was told that the HRT implant had made my womb lining very thick and that I was possibly sensitive to progesterone.
I was relieved to be leaving hospital and I just wanted to be rid of the heavy bleeding and just to feel better again.
I felt that my body had really let me down and I still have no idea as to why it has decided to do this now especially during corona virus.
I was then actually terrified of taking any more tablets/HRT to ease the bleeding. I had to take it to help me feel better. It has made me feel better.
I do not know where my menopause journey will now take me, whether it will be a mirena coil or a hysterectomy. I had never heard of progesterone sensitivity before and do not know how it is treated for women and I wanted to share my story with you and to raise more awareness for women about this symptom.
I will keep you updated of my journey and share with you my findings and information if you suffer from progesterone sensitivity also.
Talking to BBC Radio Sussex & Surrey with Allison Ferns radio presenter – Lockdown and managing perimenopause/menopause symptoms.
I was asked to join Allison Ferns to talk about managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms during lockdown. Allison and the team made me feel very welcome and it was good fun to join in the conversation, helping to make a difference to listeners.
You can listen in to the interview on BBC Sounds now before it disappears on there, or you can read the transcript from the interview below and on our website https://perimenopost.com/
The advice I gave to the audience and to yourselves also ;
Aim to get outside in the fresh air each day for 20/30 minutes to get some vit D, exercise is good for your mood, bone health and wellbeing.
Keeping socially distant at all times.
A healthy diet, try to be mindful of what you are eating. No cakes and sweets as much as they are tempting, avoid! Eat plenty of green vegetables, fruit and lean meat. Drink plenty of water, keep hydrated. Avoid alcohol too if you are experiencing anxiety or insomnia symptoms, alcohol will add to this during your sleep. Try to limit alcohol to once or twice during the weekend?
Keep a journal of your symptoms, a diary of how you are feeling and the duration of symptoms.
I mentioned a symptom chart and tracker that is available from https://perimenopost.com/ to download for free.
This will help you to keep a track of your symptoms during lockdown, you will be able to use this tracker to help you to discuss with your GP/HCP to plan your course of treatment and to monitor how you are feeling.
Lockdown has thrown us all into a busier lifestyle with a full household, adults working from home, home schooling, a much longer day with no privacy.
Before lockdown you maybe managed your menopause symptoms by choosing to exercise each day, meet friends for support, alternative remedies such as yoga/acupuncture/aromatherapy to help aid your symptoms.
You now find yourself in a place where everything is intensified, that also includes your menopause symptoms. Be honest with your partner and children tell them if you are experiencing symptoms and that you need some space, ask them to help you around the home if it is all overwhelming. Try and incorporate into your day some quiet time for you to rest, recharge and practice self care. If your symptoms are affecting you seriously do not suffer in silence, contact your GP/Doctor there is help out there, as I have stated above personally with my recent trip to A&E.
Call 111, your GP or contact your Consultant by email. Doctors can make contact with you via zoom/video calls there is help out there.
I would like to say a big thank you to Allison Ferns, the producer of the afternoon show and all the team for a great time talking to your listeners.
Below is a link to the transcript of the radio interview with Allison and myself.
Download your free 34 menopause symptom chart and tracker today, to help you keep a journal of your perimenopause or menopause symptoms during lockdown. https://perimenopost.com/
Menopause Symptom – Anxiety
This one came as a bit of a shock!!
I’m not preaching that I’m a 100% confident person, but then is everybody that confident?
Yes, I have experienced nerves just like you all and the whole population. Taking my Driving test, going to interviews, personal life events, even starting this blog! You can learn from them and cope with it as best as you can at that time.
But this symptom literally hit me like a bolt from the blue, it came with no warning and no trigger. At first, I thought I was having a stroke or a heart attack, the mind already going into overdrive! Thankfully, I now know this was not the case, it was just our old friend, anxiety.
It can come to strike, well for me, at any given moment. It then floors you at that time and leaves you feeling, a sense of panic and paralysis of one’s actions for that moment. I was fortunate that my Consultant explained that anxiety is a very common symptom during the menopause and if you were lucky to have not had this before, you may well experience at this stage of your life.
Join our Facebook Private Group – Meet Mighty Menos
Seek medical help if you are feeling that you cannot cope and if this symptom is affecting your quality of life, there is help. @westkentmind @mindcharity @menopausesupport @menopause_doctor Or talk to your Gp.
For myself, I found if I counted to ten immediately and took deep breaths it helped to ease the feeling. I gave myself a mantra too, some positive self-talk!
“you can do this – it will all be ok, it will go as soon as it came”
Give it a try ! it works for me.
Self-care is important and support around you is vital, surround yourself with kind, fun people who have your best interest at heart. Call a friend, go for a walk, find your happy place, exercise, lose yourself in a good book, maybe try an online mindfulness class, a new hobby you are keen to try. Keeping socially distant.
Shoutout to the women who fix another woman’s crown without telling the world it was crooked.
@thegoodquote
Try to not think it too much, keep yourself busy and distracted. It is just what your body is going through and if you need some help, talk to someone and as they say, a problem shared is a problem halved.
Let’s support one another, women to women, as we are all either going through or will be going through this stage of our lives at some point.
@megsmenopause website has a wealth of information detailing the menopause, I have found her site to be a personal lifesaver!
@sonyateclai
Have you listened to PeriMenoPost Podcasts during lockdown?
Season one, currently published episode 6. Talking to Rebecca Smith, Editor and Founder of Goldie Magazine, an online digital magazine. We discuss life, lockdown, fabulously simple solutions during lockdown. Rebecca also shares her own personal journey with menopause and raises awareness for post menopause with her infectious energy and positivity!! Instagram @goldie-magazine
Stay safe, connect with one another via technology and be kind to yourselves.
Have a great week Menos.Advertisements
Occasionally, some of your visitors may see an advertisement here, as well as a Privacy & Cookies banner at the bottom of the page. You can hide ads completely by upgrading to one of our paid plans.
I think any man who has experienced and watched their partner go through the stages of perimenopause and menopause deserve a medal too!
It cannot be easy for Men and also family members to watch as their loved one begins to change because of symptoms of menopause.
It comes as a massive shock to us women, so how do men cope with this change also?
Is this why the Mans cave becomes a retreat for many? To create some space for men to take stock and to have somewhere to escape too?
How can we help men to understand what is happening to our own bodies if we are not informed and supported ourselves within the health profession? Within the workplace is also another issue too. Many women are afraid to talk to their male work colleagues as they are too ashamed and feel uncomfortable to talk to a male about their symptoms that maybe affecting their work and capabilities.
It is important that our generation is open and honest when talking about Perimenopause and Menopause to help other generations and importantly for men to also understand.
The average age for menopause in the Uk is around the age of 51. Perimenopause can begin much sooner as early as mid thirties to the age of 45.
If a woman is under the age of 45 and has experienced menopause this is called an ‘early menopause’
A condition that can also occur much earlier in a woman is POI – premature ovarian insufficiency.
Medical or surgical treatments for the treatment of cancer, radiotherapy or can also result in an early menopause or POI.
Not every woman will have all 34 symptoms but here is a list that may help if you are noticing a change in your partners/colleagues wellbeing and personality.
The 34 symptoms of menopause are;
insomnia
brain fog
joint aches/pains
headaches/migraines
hot flushes
night sweats
fatigue
lack of libido
vaginal dryness
dry hair
brittle nails
dental problems
anxiety
weight gain
dry skin
osteoporosis
panic disorder
depression
irritablity
body odour
irregular heartbeat
allergies
stress incontinence
bloating
dizzy
tingling
muscle tension
digestive problems
electric shocks
tender breasts
burning mouth
mood swings
irregular periods
memory lapses
difficulty concentrating
PeriMenoPost has a downloadable symptom chart tracker to help keep a track of symptoms. If your partner/colleague can keep a log of their symptoms, then take the chart to her doctors appointment. This will help create conversation and also show a pattern of symptoms for the GP to see, making the best form of treatment if possible to help aid her perimenopause or menopause journey.
Helpful tips to support your partner during perimenopause and menopause.
Just to be there, to listen and to be understanding. Be patient, be loving and supportive. If you can make your partner feel special, loved and to remind her how fantastic and attractive you still find her.
Women need to hear this at this stage of their lives even more so!! Self confidence and low moods can be present and with hormones spiking up and down from one minute to the next, it’s exhausting for us girls!
A quiet night in! A good netflix box series, healthy food and an early night is now a womans new friday night! Early nights and the occassional drink is much better for women at this change of their lives. Why not encourage a friday night to be your special date night. Just the two of you, netflix and maybe a G&T! Cuddle up on the sofa and enjoy being together. Just knowing that your there for your partner will help your partner to feel good about herself and to will help to unwind.
Communication is key! Keep all lines of communication open and talk with your partner about how they are feeling, can you help around the house be gentle and kind. This will be appreciated, without the pressure of having to ask you. Which can present as another issue, pressure and overwhelm. As women we feel the need to be wonder woman! We feel it is our role and our job to run everything! Try to talk without coming across that your noticing things which are not being done. This could result in a meno rage explosion, so drop into conversation that you could help with the weeks shopping trip, ironing or sometimes just the offer a cup of tea can be all that we need!
Try to not snap back at your partner also, if you find you are in heated exchanges. The up and down of oestrogen and progesterone plays havoc with mood swings, try to be undestanding and patient. If you feel you may say something unkind or untoward take a step away, breathe and try not to take things too personally.
Find out as much information as you can to educate yourself about perimenopause and menopause. You can visit your GP or try some of these helpful sites to help give you more information and support.
Try to encourage your partner to exercise, maybe you could work out together. This will help to give your partner a lift in mood, all those endorphins and for that all important feel good factors for well being. Exercise really helps to alleviate symptoms during perimenopause/menopause. A gentle jog, a cardio class or a yoga class. During Lockdown there has never been a great time to experience new classes, you could try a class together.
Love and sex during this stage of a woman’s life can be a sensitve time, as you both crave love and affection from one another. She will feel unattractive and low in confidence and you will begin to feel ignored and maybe unloved? Sound familiar? Women at this time are going through such big hormonal shifts mentally and physically sometimes the last thing on a woman’s mind is sex. I can assure that as a woman of forty something we do want our partners, it just takes time for the feelings and changes occurring to a woman need to be accepted and embraced before you can feel comfortable. We all age, all change is anothers factor of ageing, it can arrive as a big shock for women. We have to deal with the big slap in the face that you can no longer have children, you no longer feel feminine and a another reminder that we are ageing and that youth is slipping away. Reassure your partner that you still find her attractive and that you are looking forward to the rest of your lives together and that you have so much to look forward to together!!
Once I started I could not finish PERIMENOPOWER by Author Katarina Wilk, Orion springs Publishing.
I throughly recommend reading this book!! A MUST!
If you are looking for clear, honest and helpful supportive advice during perimenopause. This is your BOOK!
Katarina talks about her own ups and downs with insomnia and her perimenopause symptoms that you can relate too.
Her writing style is informative, helpful and positive! Urging you to regain your PERIMENOPOWER!
Fourteen chapters each detailing separate issues and topics including katerinas story, terminiology help and advice to see you through tese stages with lifeestyle changes, exercise, diet and HRT.
katarina had a particularly difficult time with insomnia and she explains the lacks of sleep so accurately the merry go round of brain fog that ensues with thius symptom. Shje also details hwo the lack of sleep can seriously affect your whole well being, I for one can relly realate tothis.
When insomnia strikes it can really unbalance you and derailyour joie de vie!
How many women have been told this when visiting their GP with symptoms unaware of perimenopasue?
I don’t want to take anti – depressants I’m not depressed, I just want to sleep
Katarina Wilk, Author- PERIMENOPOWER
Katarina’s helpful book with medical information broken down to understand in a way that you feel immediately comforted safe in the knowledge that these symptoms are natural and help is out there to get you through!
I want to clarify once again that the perimenopause isn’t an illness but a phase that most women go through. SOme of us suffer more, others less and sometimes it’s hard to say which came first, the chicken or the egg.
Katarina Wilk – Author – PERIMENOPOWER
Katarina chapter on HRT is really helpful and goes into detail about the viewpoints previously about HRT and how HRT research shows that it is important for women to use HRT during perimenopause and menopause. The benefits for your heart, bone and well being are mentioned by Professor Tord Naessen at Uppsala University. She also brings to our attention an OEstrogen pioneer in swedish gynaecology, Mirjam Furuhjelm who believed that a womans life should be lived for as long as possible and as healthy as possible. Mirjam true to her belief took oestrogen in her midlfe and lived to the age of 94!
Season one of PeriMenoPost Podcasts has now come to an end, todays episode 10 with Breeda Bermingham is the last in this season’s pods. I am midway through recording season two with more guest speakers talking all things perimenopause and menopause.
It has been great fun recording the podcasts with women who truly want to help other women and help to create more awareness surrounding perimenopause/menopause stopping the taboo and stigma. I hope that during lockdown the pods have helped to support followers and raise awareness.
You can find the pods on itunes, spotify and anchor fm.
PeriMenoPost Podcast – Season 1 Episode 10 Breeda Bermingham, Founder of Midlife Women Rock Project.–PeriMenoPost
PeriMenoPost talks to Breeda Bermingham, Founder of Midlife Women Rock Project, a Midlife Women’s Health Advocate and Researcher. Breeda is a mum of four children and lives in Ireland. A previous nurse and midwife, Breeda later qualified as a public health nurse. Following the birth of her fourth child and deciding to work part time. She enrolled into full time education and studied a degree in psychology. Her thesis involved researching midlife and menopause. During her research her findings became clear that the cultural beliefs of female ageing has to change and she believes in a positive approach to menopause and is on a mission to change this mindset. Her three top issues to highlight are fear, shame and denial, she believes these are all the top main feelings women feel during this stage of their life and wants to change this. She also feels that the next stage of menopause should be talked about, for women to come forward to discuss their journey of post menopause and relay any fears to younger women. Breeda is currently finishing her masters on menopause and she holds regular MidlifeWomen Rock cafe’s each month for the women in her surrounding area of Waterford. Held at the Waterford Health park, Waterford city for support and conversation surrounding menopause. She would like MidLifeWomen Rock to be available for all women of Ireland and to have access too. Midlife Women Rock project is a continuation of a 60 day facebook posting to change the narrative for midlife and menopause. Her research found that women collaborating together becomes a powerful force and can achieve great change! A must to break down the menopause taboo!!! Breeda is very passionate and genuinely wants to help women at this time during the stages of menopause, listen in to our conversation and enjoy. If you would like to reach out to Breeda you can reach her at her website or on social media. https://www.midlifewomenrockproject.com @midlifewomenrock -Instagram @midlifewomenrockproject – facebook Breeda Bermingham – Linkedin Audio Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.
PeriMenoPost has launched it’s very own PeriMenoPost Members Club for brands.
If you are a retail brand or retail service that can help women through the stages of perimenopause and menopause we can help to represent you and be a part of our membership club.
PeriMenoPost members club promotes brands and menopause services to a bespoke audience of customers.
Ensuring help and empowerment to women during all the stages of menopause.
Email me today [email protected] to find out more about how PeriMenoPost Members Club membership today.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Today is 1st July 2020 not long until 4th July, super saturday is nearly here and we will slip back into a some what normal way of life again. Please remember to stay safe and to follow government guidance rules and most importantly to look after yourselves Menos!
Have you found yourself saying no to certain foods and alcohol? Join the club!
Have you noticed when you have had that takeaway, that seemed inviting at the time but then disagrees with you during the early
hours of the morning? A night of disturbed sleep and feeling awful the next morning? Ringing any bells yet?
Let’s add alcohol to the mix too, those glasses of wine that again seemed a really good idea at the time but then you find yourself wide awake from 2am and cannot get back to sleep, does any of this sound familiar?
During the day has your appetite fluctuated? Suddenly you can be ravenously hungry and then not the next? Then you find it’s all too easy to fall into bad snacking habits. This all happened to me, at a time when I had no idea that I was Perimenopausal. I could not understand what was happening to me if I am honest.
Have you found yourself saying no to certain foods and alcohol? Join the club!
Have you noticed when you have had that takeaway, that seemed inviting at the time but then disagrees with you during the early
hours of the morning? A night of disturbed sleep and feeling awful the next morning? Ringing any bells yet?
Let’s add alcohol to the mix too, those glasses of wine that again seemed a really good idea at the time but then you find yourself wide awake from 2am and cannot get back to sleep, does any of this sound familiar?
During the day has your appetite fluctuated? Suddenly you can be ravenously hungry and then not the next? Then you find it’s all too easy to fall into bad snacking habits. This all happened to me, at a time when I had no idea that I was Perimenopausal. I could not understand what was happening to me if I am honest.
nce you know that it is your hormones that are affecting you in this way, it seems to be easier to manage. I have had to change my diet habits and so far it has worked for me. I make better choices now when it comes to food at home and ordering food whilst out. Now and again the odd takeaway, then I will order something light to eat. I am not perfect 100% of the time, but then who is? I just try to be more careful and manage what I can and cannot eat. I definitely feel so much better for eating more carefully now. During this change when your body is going through such a lot of transition it is so important that your body is in good shape and why not? Eating healthy is much better for us and we want to enjoy our next stage! Right?
Personally, I have found that a varied diet of eating lean meat, fish with fresh vegetables and salads with small amounts of pasta or carbohydrates works best for me. Red meat only once a week, alcohol limiting to just the weekend, the odd 1 or 2 glasses of wine or a cheeky G&T.
“Eating well is a sign of self love “
@superhealinglife.com
Immune Boosting Juice
Carrot
1/2 Beetroot
1/2 Lemon – Juice
1/4 of Ginger
1/2 pineapple
1/2 orange – juice
1tbsp – Manuka Honey
Prepare all ingredients
Pop into Juicer/blender
Whizz and go!
For more helpful advice on Healthy Menopause Eating click on Liz
Active wear is now your choice of clothes during the Perimenopause and Menopause. Lycra and trainers, go for it why not!!!
Exercise is not just for younger women, mums it’s also for women like us of a certain age too! Can I hear a yay?
Personally exercise has been a key role for helping to manage my Menopause symptoms. It gives you a happy feeling, releasing those all important happy endorphins!!! Exercise gives you a smile, you get to keep fit, tone up all at the same time! it’s a win, win!!
I agree and yes, we have all been there. There are days when you have had a terrible nights sleep or you are up with the lark having
not slept. You have no energy or any enthusiasm to get moving and exercise, it has happened to me and I have been there.
Choose an exercise that you enjoy, take that first step today, what have you got to lose?
Try running, cycling, a group led exercise class, swimming, a hobby/sport, yoga and pilates. Exercise is ever evolving, there are always classes to try or maybe just put on your trainers , open the door and go for a run or walk? Exercise helps to clear the mind, gives you a great sense of wellbeing. If I have not been active my body then starts to tell me, my body starts to ache, my joints begin to stiffen and is quite uncomfortable. As we grow older and manage the Menopause it is important for our bones and our heart health. Weight bearing exercise is also good for ensuring bone health which
can help with making our bones stronger, which helps to keep osteoporosis at bay.
There have been times that exercise has been my saviour and sanity!! I have met many people and made great friends through exercise. After I’ve exercised I have an increased energy, more focus of mind and have an all round happier mood. Yes, I do get tired, I listen to my body and will then rest. I then choose to have a warm bath, a read and then possibly the best remedy an early night. You can’t beat an early night, right?
During this time I have rediscovered my love of exercise training. As a young child my love of Gymnastics enabled me to train four times a week. I reached competing and professional level for Gymnastics
on vault and floor. I am really enjoying the feeling of training now as it reminds me of my younger self and how good it makes me feel.
My absolute loves are spinning, barre, yoga and pilates.
Let the Menopause be the start of start of a love of fitness!
Share with us what form of exercise helps you to manage the Menopause, what works for you?
We would love to hear your stories about exercise. Take that first step and don’t look back.
We would like to wish all the Mums out there who are juggling the Perimenopause or Menopause and raising a family, a very Happy Mothers Day. Make sure you get spoilt rotten!!
Have you found support from your partner, family and friends during the stages of Perimenopause and Menopause? Did your Mother, Grandmother, talk to you of the Menopause openly and honestly?
Are you aware of the symptoms and how your Mother managed her Menopause?
I have a feeling that the answer could be no? Not much at all?
All we were taught at school during the 1980’s for Sex education was about puberty and periods. I do not recall much at all regarding the
Menopause, we were told that periods just stop. Period, pardon the pun!
We all think that the Menopause seriously won’t happen to us until we are much older, and it has been firmly forgotten about and not on the horizon at all. I am convinced that, this thought of mind is because there is no awareness about the Menopause and it is not spoken about openly and honestly. So it’s no real surprise for women of our generation when it arrives, it can derail you when it strikes! If your aware of what symptoms to expect and have some knowledge of how to treat this stage it would help the transition to possibly be more smoother.
It is so important, more than ever that you talk this through with your partner, family and colleagues at work how you are feeling and what you are going through. The more that people are aware of the
Menopause and how to support women at this time the better it makes for the lives of women. Changes can be made for example at work with flexible working, breaks, support from your manager if they have Menopause training and use of the Menopause in the workplace guidelines.
At home if you can talk and share how you are feeling so that everyone is aware of what you are going through, this will help you feel better and supported through the Menopause. It is important to get help from your Doctor to support you with your symptoms, with treatment if needed with HRT or alternative treatments.
This Mothers Day make sure you tell your family if you are struggling with the Menopause and ask for help and support from them, it can be just a hug, listening to you, helping you to overcome stressful situations and maybe help you have some fun.
The most important thing that we must do as Mothers is to tell our Daughters all about our Perimenopause and Menopause. Talk openly and honestly so that we can help our Daughters to know what to expect in the future with hormones and Menopause, to give them as much support and knowledge as they need.
Rachel Maclean MP and Diane Danzebrink a Menopause Nurse Specialist and Menopause Campaigner, are campaigning to raise the awareness of the Menopause. There is hope that the Schools
National Curriculum will include the menopause in sex education for children to gain knowledge. Sign the campaign at www.menopausesupport.co.uk #makemenopausematter 16K people have already signed their support, help to support this campaign and make a difference to womens lives for current and future generations.
The Menopause has alot to answer as it brings along a whole host of symptoms take a look at these;
● Hot Flushes
● Night Sweats
● Loss of Libido
● Vaginal Dryness
● Irregular Periods
● Anxiety
● Irritability
● Panic Attacks
● Difficulty Concentrating
● Mood Swings
● Foggy Brain
● Depression
● Fatigue
● Hair loss
● Insomnia
● Dizziness
● Weight Gain
● Bloating
● Allergies
● Brittle Nails
● Osteoporosis
● Bladder Problems
● Irregular Heartbeat
● Body Odour change
● Joint Pain
● Dental Problems
● Headaches
● Breast Pain
● Muscle tension
● Burning Mouth
● Nausea and Digestive problems
● Tingling sensations
● Dry and Itchy Skin
Were you aware of all the above symptoms? Were you aware that falling Oestrogen levels can cause dry skin? No, neither were we! Lower Oestrogen levels makes less production and repair of collagen and elastin in the dermis of skin.
This is a whole new experience for ones self and other women. I was just putting up with my symptoms and thinking that it was normal. I have always been very fortunate and lucky with my skin up until now.
This symptom crept up slowly and then took a hold, suddenly my arms and legs were covered in a white sheen. This was more than the usual “I need a holiday ” sort of skin that we all experience at this time of year, when we start to prepare our bodies for the summer weather. I now follow a daily routine of creams and ointment to keep my skin in check and healthy. My Doctor is really helpful and has given me so much support and information.
Has anyone else found that their hair, nails and body hair grows in bursts? I feel that this is another point to raise. I am sure again, that this is due to fluctuating levels of hormones at this stage of the Menopause. My trips to the Beauticians for waxing, nails and hair appointments have become pretty much sporadic which has to be an upside, which is a bonus, at last!!
● If you are having dry skin why not give some of these a try, if you are having discomfort I suggest you visit your GP for medical advice.
● Cetraben – Buy over the counter in Boots and most chemists.
● Aveeno – Buys over the counter in Boots and most chemists.
● Betnavate – You may need a prescription for this.
● Diprobase – Buy over the counter at most chemists and Boots.
Why not treat yourself to a nice beauty treatment to help your skin feel nice and soft, remember to mention if you are having dry skin problems and any other symptoms. It is important to to make yourself feel special and young again it makes you feel good!! Why not book in for a massage, a facial, a hot bath and face mask, polish your nails or a hair treatment or blow dry. This will help you to feel good about yourself and give you a healthy glow and smile.
I have attached a link from DR Louise R Newson, My Menopause Doctor who has written a fact sheet detailing the Menopause and Skin for your information.
A link to Liz Earle’s Wellbeing Magazine gives you some more advice and tips to help with dry/itchy skin during the Menopause.https://lizearlewellbeing.com/rose-petal-milk-bath/
Give the Salmon recipe a try too! https://lizearlewellbeing.com/good-mood-food-salmon/
I intend to research and find suitable Menopause Skincare friendly products to use, so will keep you updated. Remember this week to take some time out and relax, look after your wellbeing. Easter is nearly upon us and it is important during this time of the Menopause that you take some well earned “you time” Have a great week!!
Menopause ….. Silence…… Every woman going through the stages of the Menopause would have been on the receiving end of this sound.
Upon mentioning the word “Menopause” and for daring to say that they have symptoms themselves and that they are menopausal. Why is there so much stigma and taboo surrounding this topic? For women this is a natural stage of their lives, some women are forced into this stage by surgical intervention or because of certain health/medical reasons.
#UndoTheMenoTaboo Personally, having had an early menopause I found the experience a very isolating and lonely time. There was no support groups from within the area I reside, during that time I had a very unhelpful GP who advised me that I should try alternative remedies.
I was aged around 41/42 years, suffering from insomnia, fatigue, irregular bleeding, weight gain, joint aches and now upon reflection mild anxiety. I was lucky to have changed GP’s and was given HRT to help manage my symptoms. When the perimenopause and menopause arrives, it comes as a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you experience a sense of grief and a feeling of a loss of identity. It happens at a time when you have absolutely no idea of what is happening to your body and overall wellbeing.
Having no one to talk to during this time was incredibly hard, as no one talks about it, not your friends, partner, work colleagues and even my GP at that time! Your confidence takes a real nose dive and you just do not want to tell the world all these weird feelings that are going on around and around inside your head. Also during this time for myself, a strong feeling of invisibility also hit me with a very powerful surge of feelings, that you suddenly feel very old, you’re over the hill and of no use to any one. It’s normal to feel like this, it’s ok.
Once you know what you are dealing with, it helps you to understand and accept this stage of life. You can no longer have children, you feel unfeminine which was the worst feeling personally. It is a big wake up call to ageing. “Menopause, surely not me? thats for old people!” It is extremely hard to convey all those feelings into a proper sentence without blurting out and crying, when your with your friends, partner and family members.
This is why education and awareness is so important to making the necessary changes for women to be educated about the menopause, so that women know what to expect and to also understand what is happening to their bodies at this stage of their lives. Firstly, starting in schools so the younger generation will have knowledge of what to expect and understand, to also educate the current menopause age generation as we will be working for much longer than the current older generation of women. Retirement is now the age of 66 years for a woman.
It is a very stressful, confusing and highly emotional time. But still no one talks about it and women as a result find themselves in a vicious circle of not knowing who to turn to for advice. First port of call is the health service and a visit to see a GP, you are very lucky if you see a Doctor who is trained in this field and is open minded and caring about the Menopause. For a lot of women they will stumble across an unhelpful GP, receive no treatments and will struggle on with sometimes debilitating symptoms and feeling absolutely dreadful, I can honestly say that this was the worst time of my menopause experience.
Not being taken seriously, with no one to talk to and the stress it caused to myself and everyone in my family. Let’s not be too negative, the menopause brings with it change and we need to celebrate this. Take a positive view on what the future holds, no more periods, no more childbirth, your freedom back so you can start to live your life for yourself. It is important that you take good care of your health and wellbeing, keep going back to your GP, ask for blood tests and check the NICE guidelines regarding HRT for the Menopause.
Keep notes, use a notepad to keep a track of your symptoms so when you ask for help from your Doctor, you are prepared and your Doctor can then help you to make an informed choice for your quality of life with the correct form of treatment that you may need. Most importantly talk to someone, don’t struggle on your own. A problem shared is halved! Join in the conversation, it’s time to #UndoTheMenoTaboo Share our Tweet on Twitter.
Share on Facebook and Instagram. Share on Facebook and Instagram Share the post with a comment to include; Your age If you are Early/Meno/Post Menopause Add our Hashtag #UndoTheMenoTaboo
Why not add a photo of you or a video, would be great! Let’s show the world that the Menopause is normal and the stereotype is not a taboo!
Lets get this conversation started! All women together, lets break down the taboo of the Menopause together!!!
Keep the conversation flowing all things Menopause and helping others at the same time.
Celebrate the Menopause!!!!
https://www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/menopause/the-importance-o f-nice-guidelines Have a great week, Menos.
The whole cycle then begins, as young women entering into adulthood. Women then feel under pressure to keep up. To fit in and to feel normal like all the rest.
When the period arrives and what an anti-climax that is? They just go on and on for years, you never really think about them ending. Only when you have had enough PMT to last you a lifetime!! We’ve all said it at one time “wish these periods would just stop and go away!”
Periods can be a nuisance!
But when you start going through the perimenopause and menopause, you have absolutely no idea what to expect and it certainly feels the opposite of Puberty. No one even talks about the Menopause, let alone any of the symptoms. The peer pressure is so different, in fact there is none whatsoever for women at this stage of their lives. It can feel lonely, isolating and can be debilitating.
At school, during sex education lessons we were taught that the Menopause was the end of Menstruation, period – pardon the pun! It is no wonder then as women we find ourselves confused and concerned about our wellbeing and need educating and supporting through this stage of life.
#UndoTheMenoTaboo
When the symptoms and feelings arrive, it comes as a shock! At first a feeling of YAhooo!!!! no more periods and definitely no more children!
After a while it starts to sink in as to what is happening, once you have been told by either a result of a blood test and Gp or through your own research. Your feelings go up and down, you become more aware of your own self, your being, self-identity and that you are now ageing. It is hard to accept at first, but once you know what is happening to your body and you know what you are dealing with it somehow helps you to cope through it. You feel Normal, but to the outside world it is not seen or accepted that way at all, this must change.
You’re no longer needed by your now Teenager/s, your body is ageing and it is now telling you by the physical reminders. You have a feeling that your youth has disappeared but the next part of your journey and the next chapter in life is just about to begin!!
If you are having symptoms that are impacting your quality of life, visit your GP or Gynaecologist for help. If you feel you need to talk to someone about your feelings, visit a counsellor who specialises in women’s health and can help you through this stage.
https://thebms.org.uk/ The British Menopause Society
https://www.rcog.org.uk/- Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynaecology
https://www.mind.org.uk/- Mind
“So Mother Nature , why is the menopause shrouded in so much privacy and taboo?”
Why is it deemed a dirty word, a disease and ignored? This mindset has to to change to help and benefit other women to know and to learn what to do to help themselves to gain the treatment they need to have a better quality of life during this next chapter of their lives.
My personal theory, is that Menopause arrives to help you and your children to prepare for the next stage in life. For the Teenager who is busy enjoying life and about to head off to University and beyond, has no idea that they are leaving us Mums with an empty nest. Us mums, we are left to deal with the Menopause on top of this but make it a positive part of your life!! The second chapter is just for you! You have helped to raise your children the best you can, your Teenager will not only thank you for this but if they see you also enjoying life and having fun it will help your relationship enormously and that the Menopause is a normal part of life!!
So next time your Teenager is staring into a phone, glued to X-Box/Play Station, SnapChat or Fake Tan and Pre’ drinks if 18 or above, Take a PAUSE – Remember this is all part of the cycle!!
WE WERE YOUNG ONCE – CHERISH THIS
MAKE THE MOST OF THIS TIME – INDULGE
THINK AHEAD FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR NEXT CHAPTER! – EMPOWER AND DO IT!!! @perimenopost
It has been a busy few weeks with the word ‘Menopause’.
All the Menoteers, Menovists are out there spreading the word for the younger generation of women to be made aware of what to expect when the menopause arrives.
This week BBC Breakfast time will be making a big step forward by discussing on National TV all about Menopause. #BBCMenopause Has the Taboo been broken, we think it has do you?
This is absolutely fantastic news for women and for men. This will help people to learn and to understand as to what happens to women as they go through this stage of their lives.
Let’s hope that the stereotype of a menopause woman changes after this week. We know that as we grow older and we age, our hormones deplete and we know then at some point the Menopause will arrive. We just brush it to the back of our minds and tell ourselves that we are not yet at that age. Everyone has that image in their mind of a menopausal woman, of what they look like and how old they are.
But what happens if a young woman finds herself in an Early Menopause. Someone who has not yet started a family, has had an illness, cancer or POI (Premature Ovarian Insufficiency). What about these women, will the stereotype of menopause change for these women after this weeks awareness. Lets hope that #BBCMenopause changes this for these women , as it is already a tough taboo the menopause and even harder with having an early menopause. It can be difficult to accept and to cope with, if there is no support and understanding.
Women do not talk openly about women’s health issues. Albeit pride, embarrassment or peer pressure. Women are afraid to talk about this, they’re just not spoken about. You’re made to feel that there is something wrong with you, no one mentions menopause or any gynaecological related issue. These taboos need to be broken down . We should all be able to talk freely and openly about our health, as during the Menopause big changes happen to our bodies that we need to be made aware of. It is important that we know what to look out for, symptoms, help and support.
The Eve appeal has launched a campaign for the word ‘Vagina” to be normalised. The campaign will help fund more research into the five cancers for women – Vulva, Womb, Ovarian, Cervical and Womb Cancer.
This is why we need to be able to talk openly about women’s health, not to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Lets help breakdown the taboo’s of Menopause and Vagina,
Louise Minchin at BBC Breakfast has opened the dialogue on National TV discussing Menopause, this will have a huge impact for many women’s lives whilst managing Menopause. The Mp Rachel Redditch discussed the word Menopause in the Houses of Parliament, so change is starting to occur. The word #Menovist has become a term now used for the growing number of women making a stand about Menopause to highlight awareness and the need for women to be able to make an informed choice for the treatment of Menopause.
Yesterday was MegsMenopause Conference 2019 PeriMenoPost was fortunate to go along and the spend the day at the event. What a day it was!!
#Menovist Meg Matthews
The day was planned to perfection, the expert guest speakers included;
Meg Matthews, Dr Louise Newson, Dr Niamh O’Kennedy, Dr Larisa Corda, Dr Saadia Meyer, Alix Fox, Ane Auret, Jannette Ryan, Annabel Oakley-Watson, Dr Sarah Ball, James Dempsey, Hala El-Shaffe, Caroline Gaskin, Dr Ornella Cappelari and Michelle Zelli. The message that was conveyed throughout the day was positive and valuable with information to empower women to use when asking for help, support and treatment from their doctors. Tips, and advice of how to manage symptoms.
Meg Matthews has created her own brand and a tribe of followers, Megs website was a lifesaver for myself and for many other women. I discovered the site and read through the helpful information and it helped to make me realise that I was in fact normal, that what was happening to my body was a natural part of a woman’s life.
Meg is a true Menovist, she has stood up and spoken out aloud about her experiences and she works tirelessly to ensure that menopause is accepted and understood, there is no stopping her. https://megsmenopause.com/
Dr Louise Newson is a Gp and runs her own Menopause Clinic, she is leading the way with her clinic and the treating of women and Menopause. We need more GP’s like Louise up and down the country to help women with their journey of the Menopause, Louise wants to ensure that every woman receives the right care they so rightly deserve. https://www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/
Diane Danzebrink is campaigning her petition to #makemenopausematter, she wants to ensure awareness with education in schools, workplace and training for GP’s to learn more about Menopause. Diane rightly states it costs the NHS more money with the current system that is in place. If more education, training is implemented it would save the NHS money, women would then be treated with the correct care that they rightly deserve. Sign the petition today to help make this change happen for ourselves, our daughters, granddaughters and further generations.https://www.change.org/p/penny-mordaunt-mp-make-menopause-matter-in-healthcare-the-workplace-and-education-makemenopausematter
Andrea maclean another #Menovist in the public eye, Andrea has written her own account of her journey of Menopause in her book – Confessions of a Menopause. To also raise awareness and help spread the Menopause word.https://www.thisgirlisonfire.co.uk/
Yesterday’s discussions provided a wealth of expertise from the guest speakers during Megs Menopause conference, they all had the same ethos that women should be able to make an informed choice regarding menopause treatment. Women will be post menopause for a third of their lives, due to the fact that times have changed and as a society we are all living for longer. Women need to be able to have that quality of life to be able to enjoy life, have fun, and to be in the best possible health that they can be.
BE INFORMED
BE AWARE
YOUR CHOICE
The more women that can become involved with helping this change and to spread the word would really help.
Everyone would benefit including ourselves, daughters, grand daughters, family members, friends, work colleagues and more generations to follow.
The menopause needs you!! Are you a Menovist, help to make a stand and make the change happen!
Why not join in our competition and win your very own T-shirt! Follow PeriMenoPost on Instagram. All you ahve to do is give us a follow. The Winner will be chosen at random from list taken, closing date 31st May 2019 at 12pm.
Terms and Conditions as follows:
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes an acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (19th May 2019 10pm) and closes (31st May 2019 MIDNIGHT)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (Size Small White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platform x (INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost.
Make sure you enter our COMPETITION!! to win yourself one of our very own #UndoTheMenoTaboo T-Shirt!
THERE’S STILL TIME TO ENTER!
ALL YOU NEED TO DO TO ENTER IS TO GIVE US A FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM @perimenopost
CLOSING DATE 31ST MAY 2019 MIDNIGHT
WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN FROM RANDOM AND ANNOUNCED DURING WEEKEND OF 1ST/2ND JUNE 2019
WINNER WILL BE NOTIFIED VIA DIRECT MESSAGE AND INSTAGRAMLIVE
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (19th May 2019 10pm) and closes (31st May 2019 MIDNIGHT)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (Size Small White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platform x (INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost.
Have you found menopause to be a lonely time? Have you found it hard to connect, have you felt alone and isolated?
Have you found it difficult to talk to friends and family members about your feelings and symptoms?
We can definitely relate to those feelings, when going through the midst of the rollercoaster ride of hormones and emotions. It is hard to verbalise and communicate with loved ones to tell them how you are feeling, when that menopause mood decides to turn up unexpectedly. It is also not something that you want to freely admit too as it is seen by others as a negative and a taboo that is not discussed.
Thank goodness for social media and platforms actively encouraging and allowing women to discuss, share and offer advice to others. Medical, health and wellbeing influencers are able to share their knowledge too which is great! This will help so many women to learn more about their feelings and how to manage menopause. Doesn’t it feel good to know you’re not alone?
It can be very isolating if you are having an early menopause as we are only too aware of. You want the support and care from your loved ones and close friends but they do not know how best to support you. Until recently there is was a lack of information and knowledge available for them to understand. #BBCMenopause and our campaign #UndoTheMenoTaboo hopefully has changed this there is much more information out there now for people to access.
You feel uncomfortable discussing your loneliness as menopause is seen as a taboo subject by many, it is extremely hard to raise during a conversation with friends. They may not be experiencing menopause so they cannot relate to how you are feeling.
When feeling alone it creates a vicious cycle for family, friends and loved ones and yourself. Friends, family and loved ones are not quite sure how to talk with you about menopause feelings and symptoms. This then makes yourself to feel ignored and not being understood. You then distance yourself from friends, family as you feel different and not normal as you are the only person going through this on your own and you feel no one understands your feelings.
To help you break this cycle of feeling lonely, why not join our conversation and follow PeriMenoPost to help you find other like minded Menos, for support, advice and friendship within a fun, safe and friendly community! Get on board! No one likes to feel left out and alone, so join our #MenoTribe!!!
Why not try this week to join a new adult education class, a new hobby, find a local menopause cafe support group meeting that you can attend to meet others in the same situation as yourself or you could volunteer for a local charity helping others. Find time also this week to talk to others, a friend, a neighbour or a work colleague or your partner. Making that first step to how you are feeling is the first step to breaking the cycle of how you are feeling and it will help you to feel more supported if you can have a friend onside that can support you and make you feel wanted and involved.
This block has encountered an error and cannot be previewed.
www.menopausecafe.net has a network of regular meet up events across the UK, if you search for events you will find your nearest available cafe, you can meet other women and talk and eat cake!
www.menopausesupport .co.uk offer’s further helpful advice and support. #makemeneopausematter campaign.
www.menopausedoctor.co.uk Dr Louise Newson website details more menopause information and runs a menopause clinic.
www.lizearlewellbeing.com Menopause related advice and information, look out for podcasts too.
www.megsmenopause.com Megs Menopause website covers a wealth of information, advice and tips also.
Menopause is to be introduced into Secondary School education.
Have you been wondering where our blog has been these past few weeks?
PeriMenoPost took a recent trip to New York, it was great to be back it had been 23 years since the last trip! So much life, the hustle and bustle of New York, the humidity however was a challenge with menopause symptoms, jet lag and heat!
What a great week it was for Menopause! The fantastic Diane Danzebrink, Rachel Maclean MP and Doctor Louise Newson have had the support from Damian Hinds MP to introduce Menopause into secondary school education. Menopause will now be included into childrens RSE lessons so that knowledge and awareness is discussed. This is a major step forward for menopause and for younger women and men too, this will really help all generations to now accept and understand what women go through, as everyones menopause if different.
Please support Diane’s campaign #MakeMenopauseMatter her next mission is to have menopause training for Gp’s and for menopause to be recognised within the workplace.
I would just like to say a big thank you to you all for following PeriMenoPost, it began as a result of my studies with Digital Mums to retrain my skillset. I have successfully passed and am now a freelance Social Media Strategist. Thank you to all PeriMenoPost’s followers for all your support and engagement. I have thoroughly enjoyed running my campaign #UndoTheMenoTaboo and PeriMenoPost so much so that I shall continue to run with myself at the helm! Please join me and PeriMenoPost on the next part of the journey and let’s see where it will take us!
There is definitely more discussions and conversations taking place now and hopefully menopause has been accepted and normalised.
Have a great week Menos, what else will be in store for menopause news this coming week?
Hello to all of our readers and followers, apologies for no recent blogs over the last few weeks. Life has been very hectic! I have been busy celebrating personally and also for my second Daughters graduation from university, a politics and philosophy degree from York University. I am a very proud mum indeed!! Two daughters have now graduated from university, my eldest graduated from Exeter University with a psychology degree.
It still only feels like yesterday that we were packing for Uni life for both of my daughters with help from the Ikea university checklist of items. Our car was brimmed full of loaded boxes and the long drive into the unknown. A sense of excitement and nerves but also the intrepidation for the journey ahead with our teenage daughters fleeing the nest.
During this stage of your menopause, have you noticed that it has coincided during the busiest time of your life? Had you once thought much like myself that at this time of our lives, life would be much more simpler and easier? No one mentions how busy life becomes with teenagers, exams, university, empty nest, work life, ageing parents life seems to be whizzing along very quickly all of a sudden.
Day to day life has somehow become busier, hectic, full on and at times all encompassing?
Is this hormones and mother nature playing havoc here? Certainly does not help at times, whether it is exhaustion, fatigue, a sleepless night or brain fog it can be very frustrating and debilitating.
If you have found yourself suddenly in the midst of perimenopause or menopause and you are having empty nest feelings, it can be a very emotional time for you. At a time when you are not feeling your best and not quite yourself, it can be very tough. You will be incredibly sensitive and emotional with your hormones at this stage and it may well feel amplified when your child goes to University. It is a huge milestone and achievement for your teenager and yourself. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and try to enjoy the process.
Just remember to be kind to yourself as this is a big change for you personally, physically and mentally within your body and it is also a change within the dynamics of your family, when your teenager leaves for university, change is happening.
I found it was important to keep my sense of identity, independence and to try and be strong as I could during these times.
There will be days when it can be tough, with your hormones and feelings, not every day will be great. Just remember to take each day as it comes and then you slowly get used to the change. Rely on your support network of friends, family, partner and colleagues. Make this the time that it is important for you and what is going to make you happy and keep you engaged and active.
Pexels
Some ideas possibly:
Keep yourself active
Exercise
See a show
Meet a friend for lunch or dinner
A spa day or retreat
Evening class
Hobby
Enrol onto a learning course University, College, Adult Education centre or Open University.
Set yourself a challenge!
New Career or start a business
Holiday with your partner or a solo holiday
Meet ups – maybe start your own one, for mums of empty nests!
Forums – For parents of teenagers at university
A weekly park run or a charity race
Plan weekends to visit your teenager, don’t cramp their style though and don’t be too disheartened if they are busy, a quick coffee or lunch and a hug is enough. You could also plan a trip/event for when your teenager comes home.
It is important to look after your wellbeing and to keep yourself mentally and emotionally fulfilled. This will help yourself and your Uni teenager to show that you’re coping ok for they will soon be arriving home with the washing! you will then have lots to discuss and catching up will be good fun.
As much as teenagers like to think they are ever so grown up and that they know everything! They do worry and care about you still, they just don’t like to admit it!
On top of all the celebrations, it was also my birthday recently. My Husband and myself share birthdays, we’re just one day apart! My birthday felt like it had arrived far too sudden this year and it flew by as quickly as it came.
Birthdays
Pexels
Have you noticed that now in menopause you feel slightly differently about birthdays each year? Do you find yourself counting down the years to the next milestone birthday with excitement or dread? Do you find it yet another reminder on top of menopause that you are ageing and becoming older?
Birthdays are now slightly odd events as you reach a certain age in midlife, have you also noticed that you don’t really like a big fuss on your birthday? Just an easy stress free day is enough to suffice or do you like to embrace your birthday and have lots of celebrations?
In particular milestone birthdays, when you were younger you would of wanted to celebrate with all your friends and share your day with everyone. As you age, you simply just want your nearest and dearest with you on your day, easy and simple with no fuss.
Is this mother nature reminding us that we are in fact getting older and as much as we would love to be dancing in Ibiza drinking cocktails into the early hours of the morning! We no longer have the capacity or neither the energy at our age now to be able to maintain such antics.
Change, you either love it or loathe it. Personally, I feel change is good !!!
Change happens all throughout life, it is inevitable. It is best not to fight it, you just have to go with the flow. It is hard at first but once you accept that your body and age is changing you will suddenly realise that you can look forward and still have fun!!! Don’t let menopause run your life, be positive and turn this stage of your life into the best times and don’t look back!
A big, big thank you to Rebecca Weef-Smith at Goldie magazine and to all the team for their splendid magazine this month.
Issue no 5 – Life’s a beach.
PeriMenoPost is featured in this months Goldie Magazine, life’s a beach issue no 5.
It was a fantastic opportunity to share my story of early menopause, retraining with Digital Mums and how PeriMenoPost was born out of personal experience.
Grab your copy today online from Goldie magazine directly or check website (link below) of where to purchase a copy locally to yourself.
Goldie is a great read, it is fashionably bright, colourful, fun and young minded, covering style, fashion, culture, life and love. Perfect for a nice sunny day in the garden or the beach with maybe a cool drink or a cheeky cocktail or two!
We love Goldie magazine!! Enjoy reading and have a great week Menos. Let’s hope the sunshine returns this week!
“Self-care means giving yourself permission to pause”
Cecilia Tran – Girls night in.
As women we all just soldier on, we’re all guilty of this, it’s mother nature again making sure we are doing our job correctly!
When your children were younger would you run yourselves ragged caring for everybody else whilst neglecting yourself and becoming completely exhausted. Sound familiar?
It is only when you are really poorly and so run down, do you then realise that there is only one of – you! You run the show.
How many times have we all mouthed the words to those around us “what would you do if I wasn’t here”? There it is, the quiet moment of realisation that there isn’t anyone, you are your own responsibility. You have to run your own show! You have to be at your best and that means self care, never a more important time than when you’re in either perimenopause or menopause.
As women we struggle with self-care because we are always so busy and couldn’t possibly indulge upon ourselves. This stage of our lives, it is absolutely vital that you factor in to your lifestyle your own self-care. Whether it be exercise, relaxation, a hobby, a good film at the cinema or a good book ensure you do what makes you feel rested and relaxed.
You don’t quite notice the tiredness symptom at first, you just become more tired sometimes with extreme fatigue.
Your so busy juggling life, rushing from one place to the next, children/ teenagers/elderly parents/partners, your career and life itself. The tiredness, it sort of creeps up on you.
How many times have you reached for that glass of rose at the end of a day?
A feeling that you are so stressed, tired and needing to switch off and relax with the hope that the pink grapes will transport you to the south of France for a brief respite. Then only to awake around 2am unable to sleep when the one glass turned into a couple. Adding to insomnia and hot sweats during the night, you then notice that alcohol is not very appealing any more.
I had no idea of how exhausted I’d been feeling when I was in perimenopause. I had just been putting up with feeling tired, low and having no energy. Only when I started to take HRT did I realise just how my energy levels had been so low. My zest for life returned and my energy came bouncing back!!
It was extraordinary how quick my energy levels rose and how much better and happier I felt in myself as a whole. The tiredness and fatigue can really make you feel pretty rubbish. If you are feeling tired, fatigued and you’re not sure if you are perimenopause or menopause book an appointment and discuss with your Gp and ask if you could be having menopause symptoms. Remember to check NICE guidelines of menopause treatment, download and print to take with you to help you and your Doctor to decide what is going to be the best form of treatment for you.
Since last summer, I developed a ringing in my ears. Particularly during bedtime, the ringing became such a nuisance with the loud throbbing and ringing in my ears. As I was now able to get to sleep with the help of HRT but I was now being kept awake by Tinnitus. It became a vicious circle, having previously had good sleep and feeling energised I suddenly noticed my tiredness return after a bad nights sleep from tinnitus.
The ringing was all too familiar as when I was a child, I had glue ear. I had absolutely no idea that the ringing would return at the age of 47!
Acupuncture has been a great help to manage tinnitus. I have been told that tinnitus can present as a menopause symptom. Management of my tinnitus has helped me to know and understand when my body is tired, the ringing will start in my ears and then I will notice that I am indeed tired or been particularly stressed. It is like a little reminder just to take it easy and to rest up. Too much white noise from TV, talking or busy open spaces can also trigger the ringing.
With knowledge and management of menopause with HRT and acupuncture, I now know how my body is changing and adjusting to menopause and this is how I self care for myself.
Good luck Meno’s, remember to look after yourself because you are worth it!
News this weekend made headlines about the possibility of halting menopause. This is great news especially for younger women who could be affected by POI, early menopause or through illness and surgical menopause. If you could halt your menopause would you? It is fantastic that we live in an age of such cutting edge science and technology. Let’s hope that this breakthrough will create a better quality of life for women with menopause. We are all extremely lucky to be a part of this time with such talented medical experts who specialise in medical health.
Have a great week Menos!! Make sure you fit in some quality time for yourselves.
So remember in my last blog, I mentioned how important self-care is?
Mmmm, Guess what?
Whilst in the process of taking my advice of self-care, I somehow inadvertently managed to have quite a nasty accident.
Whilst packing for an impromptu holiday by the seaside in the UK. One searched high and low for the UK holiday wardrobe staple, that is, the uniform black swimming costume. For those chilly summer days when braving the cold water. My haven, that is my uber comfortable bed is one of those ottoman styles, the type that helps you beat that storage solution, one of those beds that you can raise.
Found the swimsuit, all good to go! However, this was not to be. The bed would not close flat, I had not laid the boxes flat. The bed seemed high enough to move the box back to its place as the bed would not close down. When an accident is about to occur, why does it always feel like slow motion?
Just like that! As quickly as a puff of air, the bed immediately collapsed onto both of my wrists! Trapped to the bed, it was just like a scene from “some mothers do have em” or the expression “no one will hear you scream”
There was no one at home to hear my cry for help, the panic then set in.
I somehow managed to rip my sleeve, enabling myself to free one arm.
Great! My watch had then become wedged between the bed frame and my wrist on my other trapped hand, causing more pain and discomfort. I still do not understand at just how I managed to free both arms and to be able to do this, but somehow I did!! The power of a mighty meno!
I managed to gain all the strength I had, I wedged my right foot in between the bed frame and lifted the frame with the now free arm. It took me around two attempts and the panic had well and truly set in. I managed only just to free the trapped arm. I immediately went into a state of shock, I scrambled across the bed to the telephone and managed to call my husband to help me as soon as he could.
A quick phonecall to 111, who recommended a trip to A&E, I had no feeling what so ever in my hands I was then starting to worry.
The x-ray revealed no broken bones, just rest and review in 7 days. The pain has been very intense at times a sort of extreme form of pins and needles in my hand.
Not the best start to a holiday! but my whoopsadaisy accident forced me to rest up! Hands are on the mend, thankfully.
The coast with the most
Have you found or noticed during menopause you have become more clumsier, more accident-prone, falling over, forgetting things?
Do you feel at times during the stages of perimenopause and menopause that your equilibrium feels out of balance?
My current HRT has changed recently, I am definitely noticing a change of symptoms and behaviour that had disappeared and has now returned, kind of up and down just like the rollercoaster ride again.
Just to add to all the madness to finish off the holiday and one’s brain!
I’m normally so super organised, packing for the whole family, this includes a final sweep of the accommodation in case those runaway socks or pants have dodged the suitcase. Though most importantly for those teenager earphones!
I still cannot believe it, now worried I am sounding a lot like Victor Meldrew!! Yes, I had managed to leave a whole drawer of MY items behind at our accommodation. So very unlike me!
My holiday was a nice restful break, but strangely my injury had forced me to just stop and take life at a slower pace and it felt great!!! Our lives become so busy with running around ensuring that the list is all ticked, everybody is entertained and with the pressure of busy lifestyles.
Menos, an important message here, stay away from ottoman style beds and double-check your holiday accommodation!
What another week is has been for Menopause!! Whilst relaxing the menopause alerts were pinging away, merrily. All the recent awareness of menopause and the use of HRT to treat women. It seems there is now a shortage. How is this possible? Surely this cannot be correct? How do you feel about this Menos? How will this affect you? Is your Gp proactive and helping you to ensure you have a supply to help you through? Has it already been a battle and that you now feel cheated by the system? Will be interesting to see where this will lead us too with the current menopausal age of women. I feel the power of women empowering one another, will help to raise awareness and bring the necessary change needed to ensure that all women receive the right to equal menopause treatment.
Have a super week menos, keep talking menopause. Why not check out a fellow #Menopal #blogger, @teaandcakeforthesoul.wordpress.com sending you a speedy get well wish. Look out for some exciting PeriMenoPost news during the next week!!
Why is there no alarm bell or no added peer pressure when perimenopause or menopause arrives?There is rather a lack of it?
Definitely no bells ringing, is this a good thing?
Think back to when you were constantly being asked by school friends “have you started your period yet” That dreaded question, that you knew was coming. Maybe we do need a small reminder or that gentle nudge that perimenopause and menopause could soon be heading our way?
Would you like to have been more prepared and would you have appreciated some relevant information to help you for when the time comes?
How is it so, that all women at any age do not mention menopause? It’s quite remarkable that as women we go through our lives, living and dealing with periods and childbirth. Why do we go silent when talking about menopause? It’s a bit like the childbirth myth, not spoken about until afterwards.
Firstly, no one wants to admit that they are ageing or having symptoms, we are all guilty of that one! We do need to talk more openly about our feelings and to raise more awareness, no longer keeping menopause shrouded in taboo. It’s time to put menopause into a positive mindset for women, menopause should no longer be silenced or joked about. It happens to all of us, we need to embrace and accept it.
It is partly due to awareness and a lack of education on the subject of menopause and perimenopause. For a long while there has been very little available information out there for women until very recently. Women are now asking more questions, leading the way forward and gaining the correct menopause treatment that they rightly deserve. Menopause campaigners, Diane Danzebrink, Dr Louise Newson, Meg Matthews, Liz Earle and Andrea Maclean have helped to raise menopause’s profile and this is helping to make a difference to many women’s lives.
As a society, everyone is living longer. Menopause has suddenly exploded onto the horizon as more and more women are now working into an older age. Whilst running a busy home, a career, children, uni-teenagers, empty nest, elderly parents and life is busy, it’s fast paced and at times overwhelming with stress. No wonder women are asking more questions and in need of help and support.
Why not make this week a positive start and talk to friends, family members, colleagues about menopause. Start asking questions and see what response you have? You could be surprised and also be relieved that you all could be feeling the same way but just too embarrassed to mention. Give it a try!!!
A group of women who are shouting the word menopause on social media at present are the pausitivity ladies, they’re currently running a fantastic awareness campaign on social media. A poster/selfie campaign @Pausitvity it’s run by a group of 4 women – @yournewlifeplan @Karen_Kenning @Change_n_thrive @50Sense #KnowYourMenopause
These ladies are committed to helping spread the word “menopause” out there for everyone. Their aim is to have a poster in every GP surgery. The poster outlines symptoms and gives some informative advice on what to do if you are experiencing symptoms. Why not take your selfie today, with a poster like we did (below) and join in the menopause conversation too!
Head to @pausitivity on Twitter and click to download for the poster, take your selfie holding the poster and simply ask to pin up at your local GP Surgery.
#KnowYourMenopause
Author Jane Lewis of My Menopausal Vagina book, which highlights one of menopause’s taboo subjects Vaginal Atrophy. She is raising awareness for an unmentioned and not discussed menopause symptom, Vaginal Atrophy or genitourinary symptoms of menopause. Head to @mymenopausalvagina on twitter or www.mymenopausalvagina.co.uk then download your copy. Jane would like the leaflets to be featured in doctors surgeries, hospitals and care homes for elderly women to gain access. #vaginalatrophy campaign.
#VaginalAtrophy
This week we posted about an article from @mygenneve @jillangelo @RebeccaCaroe – founder of Faster Master Rowing. The article explains how rowing for women over the age of 40 is fast becoming a rapidly growing sport. There are many health and wellbeing benefits for women to start rowing as a sport. Not only is it good for fitness and health, it is a great stress buster and a sociable sport that women can meet and make new friends. To read the full article head to twitter @mygenneve
It looks like a challenge may well have been set by ourselves, so watch this space! A gentle nudge and reminder to give rowing a try!
September is all about new beginnings and fresh starts what will you be deciding to do this September menos?
A new feature to our weekly blog, a real life Meno 60 seconds interview!!!!!
Karen Lingard is a PeriMenoPost follower.
Karen would like to share her story with you to help other women by talking about the words “perimenopause and menopause”
Karens real life menopause journey, told by Karen, herself.
My journey began a couple of years ago, I started to put on some weight and was then not able to lose it. I noticed I was sweating more, than the usual. I never thought this had anything to do with menopause, I still felt far too young. I am 51 years old now, I feel that this age is a blessing. I began to hide my age and I didn’t really want to admit to getting older. Last year I started to feel that something was not right, upon the left side of my tummy, a slight swelling appeared. I was also experiencing really bad acid reflux which was making me feel quite nauseous a lot of the time.
I was always tired, with no energy. I knew something was wrong but didn’t know what it could be. I kept visiting my Doctor but they insisted it was acid reflux. A blood test revealed that I was anaemic due to the heavy periods I had endured. Having had a colonoscopy and endoscopy, I still felt unwell. My lower back and my joints were burning and were very painful, my Doctor sent me to have x rays and ct scans, just to be sure that there was nothing sinister happening. During this point, I became quite anxious I became convinced that it was something sinister as I knew my own body. I was given anxiety tablets from my doctor. I had never experienced anxiety before, I had never suffered with stress. I just knew there was something more.
I could not eat fatty foods, this would make me feel sick, my joints became painful and with a burning sensation. It was affecting my quality of life, work and my family life. I decided to pay privately for more scans and tests. My results showed that I was suffering from endometriosis and that I was in fact perimenopausal. Once treated for endometriosis, I began my own research of how to manage perimenopause. After reading Meg Matthews website, it seemed to mirror my own personal experience. During those four months, I had a feeling that I was going mad. I laugh now with friends about my A&E trips as I genuinely believed something was seriously wrong with me. I’m usually a rational person, but it seemed to take over my life. I manage my symptoms with taking regular vitamins to help, such as 3000mg of evening primrose per day, magnesium, cod liver oil, vitamins, vitamin D and calcium. Eating a healthy diet helps, ensuring that I eat all the right foods. I manage my symptoms with plenty of regular exercise and looking after my health and well being.
A big thank you to Karen Lingard, for sharing her personal journey of endometriosis and perimenopause. We can relate with Karen’s story with many doctor trips, A&E and interestingly diet too was a factor. If you are experiencing symptoms, NICE guidelines online gives a guide on menopause to help you.
PeriMenoPost will now be featuring every week within our blog a real life interview with one of our cherished followers. A bit of fun, embracing and accepting a positive attitude towards menopause and spreading the word that it’s ok and normal to discuss menopause.
#UndoTheMenoTaboo
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life
#Menowarriors
1) Best Part of menopause?
Able to understand, talk and accept my coming to terms with menopause.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
My funniest #Menomoment, upon reflection and which I now laugh about has to be the trips to A&E . Friends joke, telling me that I am barred from A&E!
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
The bloating and change to my body.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
Initially self funding privately, I am now treated within NHS.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
Yes.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
Natural.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you, prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Information and awareness would have helped me during this time, as I felt I was in the dark.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Same, I’m now in a much happier, healthier place.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – a mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
Finding Meg Matthews website, www.megsmenopause.com – I stumbled upon her Instagram page. Bupa healthcare were very helpful.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Meg Matthews
Created by PeriMenoPost
If you would like to be interviewed for our weekly real life Meno 60 second interview,
contact –
@PeriMenoPost -Twitter
@perimenopost -Instagram
@PerimenoPost – Facebook
Look out for some exciting PeriMenoPost news soon – more information coming soon via social media!!
Competition time – Enter our competition to win yourself an #UndoTheMenoTaboo T-shirt!!! Simply retweet this week’s blog and the winner will be chosen by Friday 30th August 2019 Midday 12pm. Terms and conditions – below.
#UndoTheMenotaboo
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes an acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (25th August 2019 13.45pm) and closes (30th August 2019 MIdday 12pm )
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platform x (INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
This past week at the PeriMenoPost home has been through more change, no 2 daughter has now moved into a flat with no1 daughter. No 3 son has just had his first festival!!! Hand is on the mend too!
Looking forward to hearing all their news, oh how to be young again!!
As always Menos, have a super week and wishing you all a fabUlous bank holiday weekend!!
Menopause is hitting the headlines once more and discussions are taking place, this is fantastic news!!
However with many headlines regarding HRT shortages and last friday’s Lancet report findings, this has now plunged menopause into a yet another hot debate and causing much confusion, anxiety and frustration for many women. At a time for many menopausal women when they need supporting the most.
More information and assurance is needed to help ease minds that HRT for menopause is still ok to be used.
Before starting HRT your Doctor should always advise you of the risks that you need to consider before starting HRT. If your symptoms are debilitating and are affecting your quality of life, you need to decide and weigh up the pro’s and cons as to what is going to help you going forward to help you manage your menopause treatment. Alternative or HRT, each and everyone of us is different and not all menopause is the same for all women. You have to make the best decision that is going to work for you, a balanced and well advised decision will help you to feel that you are making a personal and well informed choice.
HRT has personally been very beneficial. Yes, I worry about the risks. But my quality of life was being affected greatly and being of a relatively younger age than the average menopause age of 51, I felt I needed the help. I would of tried anything to be honest, as I felt I could not of carried on as I was. Surviving on hardly any sleep and the long list of symptoms, fatigue and tiredness were the worst times.
When HRT works it is fantastic, you then only realise at just how much you had been suffering with such debilitating symptoms. I now have energy to exercise, a more healthy mindset. I noticed that my skin and hair had returned to a healthier appearance. Overall a sense of wellbeing and a zest for life returned.
My decision to take HRT was also to help prevent against a heart attack, or a stroke and importantly, due to a family history of osteopororisis.
I want to enjoy my life and have a better quality of life. No woman should have to live with debilitating menopause symptoms, there is treatment for women and all women should be able to have access to it.
If you missed the articles that have caused the debate and discussions we have attached them here for you to read through. If you are experiencing concerns and are worried please contact your Gp or menopause specialist and ask more questions regarding HRT.
Dr Louise Newson @my_menopausedoctor has advised through social media, press and TV that she will still be continuing with her hrt treatment for herself and that she feels that there is nothing to fear. We feel reassured by her balanced view and advice.
@my_menopausedoctor – Dr Louise Newson
Menopause Awareness Month
MENOPAUSE AWARENESS MONTH
September is Menopause awareness month and judging by the recent coverage on social media, the press and TV. We are pretty sure that more awareness will be available for women to help them find the right course of treatment to help them along their menopause journey. We will keep you posted of future events and information that may help you.
@menoandme are holding a menopause health and wellness event on the 21st of Sept in central London. To buy your tickets click on the link in the bio @menoandme on Instagram or www.menoandme.com
Jane Dowling and Dr Heather Currie will be speaking about a health initiative, menopause awareness, fundraising for charity in women.
All you need to do is bring your smile! Goody bags and raffle prizes, we have our ticket, Menos book yours today!!
Real life Meno 60 Seconds Interview
This weeks Real life meno 60 seconds interview guest is our competition winner @Emmapriceroberts – Congratulations and well done Emma!!!
Our #UndoTheMenoTaboo T-Shirt is on its way to you this week!!
#UndoTheMenoTaboo
Emma Price Roberts would like to share her perimenopause story with you. Read Emma’s story…
I am a peri-menopausal 47 year old mum to three girls.
I Finally visited my Gp in april of this year, after experiencing a meltdown whilst at work.
I was suffering from relentless hot flushes and aching bones. I began to treat each symptom individually, until a friend mentioned to me “could it be the menopause?”
I arrived at the Gp surgery in a flood of tears. Luckily, my Doctor listened to my list of symptoms. She saved mine and my family’s sanity by prescribing HRT. I had to make an informed decision and decide my next step, even though my mum had suffered with breast cancer the benefits have definitely outweighed the risks!
Life isn’t perfect, as with HRT it takes time to settle and needs adjusting and I have had to increase my dose. I have also discovered that by taking CBD oil, this is helping me to manage my anxiety it is now so much better than it was.
Real life meno 60 seconds interview with Emma Price Roberts
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life #Menowarriors
Emma Price Roberts
1) Best Part of menopause?
Still looking for the best part of the menopause…..however having the support of wonderful groups on social media & meeting new friends has definitely been a positive! As too is the fact that I am now starting to look after myself rather than everyone else 😊
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
I can’t remember!! That sums it up completely!!
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
My worst symptom is the anxiety and the sense of being overwhelmed by everything. Waking up in the middle of the night with palpitations is scary, but with the help of CBD oils this is helping to ease this symptom.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
NHS route – very supportive GP who is young enough to be my daughter!
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
No.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
It was a difficult decision for me as my mum had breast cancer 14 yrs ago however after reviewing all of the data & talking to my GP I decided that for my own sanity ( & everyone else’s around me) I would start HRT. I am currently on Femoston 2/10……sweats have stopped & the aching joints however anxiety is still something that I struggle with. To help with that I am now taking CBD oil (my 17 yr old daughter was initially mortified until I explained everything!!!) & I find that this is my new BFF!!!
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Be happy.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
‘You are not going crazy!!!!’
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
My friends have been so very supportive – they have been my sounding board & my therapist over the past year…….they were the ones who reassured me that I wasn’t going crazy & persuaded me to see my GP.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Meno and Me this fabulous lady gives me the inspiration to get out & about when some days I would rather sit on the sofa with a packet of hobnobs (although some days that is completely acceptable)…….I follow her on Twitter & Instagram too.
Thank you Emma for your story and taking part in this weeks real life meno 60 seconds interview.
This week brings September and a routine with children back to school and teenagers off to university.
The holiday season is now over and life returns back to some normality. The lovely weather returns, with bright sunny skies with a much needed cooler temperature, a deep sigh from all menos there! Possibly the best feeling walking on a bright, sunny, cooler september day when the crispy golden leaves start to fall, crunching beneath your feet. Helping you to appreciate and visualise the change of season, also a reminder that it’s time to wear layers!
The return of the hot and cold weather is back!!
What are your plans this week Menos?
Kick start your exercise plan?
Keep a symptom chart of how to manage your menopause symptoms?
Make an appointment to see your Gp to help you with menopause symptoms?
Enter our competition?
Retweet or repost our blog for your chance to win an #UndoTheMenoTaboo T-shirt and for your chance to be our real life meno 60 seconds interview guest!
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram and Facebook.
Competition time –
Enter our competition to win yourself an #UndoTheMenoTaboo T-shirt!!! Simply retweet this week’s blog and the winner will be chosen by Friday 6th September 2019 Midday 12pm. Terms and conditions – below.
#UndoTheMenotaboo
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes an acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (1st Sept 2019 11pm) and closes (6th Sept 2019 Midday 12pm )
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platform x (INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Whatever your week brings menos make sure you have fun and smile!
PeriMenoPost is pleased to announce the launch of www.perimenopost.com!!! Wahoo!!!!
If you have been following PeriMenoPost on social media you’ll know that not only do we talk socially about Menopause on all things digital but we can also help your business/brand to talk menopause friendly too!
I am Lorna Ive Founder of @PeriMenoPost and a digital mum graduate. PeriMenoPost can help your business to grow with strategic social media management.
I had a bolt of inspiration to help other women going through all stages of menopause. I wanted to create an online tool to help provide women with a friendly, fun and informative community. Navigating women through the rollercoaster ride of menopause with the help of social media platforms, Twitter – Facebook and Instagram with a weekly blog and competitions.
Perimenopost began as my campaign in January 2019 for my digital mums training, I was then able to put my lightbulb idea I had formed into action!! Perimenopost has helped to make menopause become more accepted and discussed in social conversations online and in real life.
Is your brand talking menopause friendly?
Do you have a business or brand that you feel can help women manage their perimenopause or menopause journey? Are you a brand that would like to reach out to the menopausal woman?
No longer a taboo, menopause conversations are now taking place. Let your business join in the conversation and help to raise brand awarenes and helping women at the same time.
Let perimenopost take your brand to the next level and create a winning formula!
Perimenopost is a resource for women to use online to be a part of a friendly, fun and informative community, to gain further information and understanding with a postive mindset helping to make informed choices.
Contact PeriMenoPost today.
www.perimenopost.com
@PeriMenoPost twitter
@Perimenopost instagram
@PerimenoPost Facebook
Starting the conversation about all things #earlymenopause #Perimenopause #Menopause and #postmenopause. Breaking down the taboo one post at a time ..
Real life Meno 60 seconds Interview
Real life Meno 60 Seconds interview
This weeks real life meno 60 seconds interview guest is our competition winner Samantha Evans @samtalkssex
Congratulations and well done Samantha !!!
Our #UndoTheMenoTaboo T shirt is on its way to you!!
#UndoTheMenoTaboo
Samantha Evans would like to share her menopause journey with you and share with you her commitment to raising awareness and helping women about sexual health, intimacy and to not suffer in silence. Read Sam’s story …..
I’m Samantha Evans co-founder of Jo Divine, an online sex toy company, with my husband Paul in 2007. I’m 51, menopausal, married with three teenagers.
Having a professional background in nursing, I’m a features writer for Jo Divine and work with many healthcare professionals in the NHS and private practice to help them advise their patients about regaining sexual function and enjoying sexual intimacy and pleasure through the use of suitable sex toys, dilators and sexual lubricants.
With an extensive knowledge about sex toys and sexual lubricants, I advise women going through the menopause and beyond about ways to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure as this is often a time when many couples give up on their sex lives due to the impact of menopausal health issues that affect their intimacy and pleasure.
I really enjoy sex but spent many years in my 20’s and 30’s suffering from recurrent thrush, bacterial vaginosis (BV), cystitis and urinary tract infections that led to vaginismus which nearly destroyed my sex life due to using poor lubricants such as KY jelly adn other well known brands which contain glycerin, glcyols and parabens all of which irriate the tissues of the vagina and vulva, disrupting vagina pH and can cause thrush. To overcome the issues of recurrent thrush or BV I would use well known feminine hygiene products bought over the counter and still recommended by GPs everywhere that actually exacerbated the problem as so many of them contain the same ingredients that were causing these recurrent infections!
The only advice I got from a gynaecologist at my local hospital was to iron the gusset of all my knickers which is useful advice but he never discussed my sex life or the use of lubricants.
This is why I’m passionate about educating women about ways to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure when menopausal and midlife sexual isues such as vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, painful sex, low libido and decreased sexual sensation occur, issues that many find embarrassing to talk about, all of which can impact upon sexual intimacy and pleasure and lead to people giving up on their sex life when there are simple practical things they can do to keep enjoying sex. For me, sex is fun, messy, noisy, intimate and most of all pleasurable.
https://www.jodivine.com/
https://www.jodivine.com/authors/samantha-evans
Twitter @samtalkssex
@samtalkssex @jodivineuk Instagram jo.divine
1) Best Part of menopause?
Not giving a hoot about what people think about you, I have gained so much confidence and hopefully encourage other women to speak out, seek help and not suffer in silence or from embarrassment especially when it comes to enjoying sex.
Meeting all the fabulous women through campaigning for better education and care for women. Everyone has their own story to tell and has used it to improve their own quality of life and that of women everywhere.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Being part of the Latte Lounge Panel in aid of the Eve Appeal in July with Liz Earle ( huge fan of her products), Athena Lamnisos (CEO of Eve Appeal) Dr Louise Newson ( leading menopause GP), Katie Taylor (founder of the Latte Lounge) Diane Danzebrink (founder of Menopause Support) and Jane Lewis (author of Me & My Menopausal Vagina)
Seeing a medical professional panic when they can’t turn off the sex toy you’ve put in their hand at a conference/talk. This happens quite often and always makes me smile!
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Walking out on my husband and sitting in a local wood among the bluebells crying for more than 3 hours earlier this year due to feeling completely overwhelmed and incredibly sad. I think I’m quite confident and practical, always trying to rationalize things, probably as I have a nursing background yet this completely derailed me. I always ask my children and husband where they are when they go out yet I turned off my phone and no one knew where I was and I made them frantic with worry. Something I still feel really sad about. We all ended up talking and things are better now.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
I have to admit as a former nurse I had no idea of some of the symptoms of menopause such as palpitations, itchy skin, joint aches and pains, painful breast, ect. I started to see my male GP with these symptoms about a year before I was told I was menopausal. He was hopeless, refusing to acknowledge when asked, if these were menopause symptoms and prescribing inappropriate medication which exacerbated my symptoms. Luckily we have a female GP with an interest in women’s health in my GP practice so I took my symptom checklist Diane Danzebrink recommended I do but she didn’t look at it, within minutes of chatting she said you’re menopausal and she has been fabulous ever since.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
My husband and I co-own Jo Divine and work from our home office but he is just brilliant, he’s got used to my lapses in concentration. It helps our office looks out onto the garden and I go and sit outside, have a cup of tea whenever I want to.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
HRT patches x 2 weekly to protect my heart, bone, vagina and bladder health, Vagifem (local oestrogen for my vagina) x 3 weekly.
Natural products include YES organic lubricants and vaginal moisturisers as they are free from glycerin which can cause thrush, glycols that irritate the tissue of the vagina and urethra and parabens which are oestrogenic and have no place inside our bodies, also pH balanced to that of the vagina.
Having had my sex life and vagina health destroyed in my 20’s and 30’s by KY jelly, well known lubricant brands and feminine hygiene products I wanted to ensure that I could continue to enjoy sex through menopause and beyond.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to
Perimenopause and Menopause?
Get educated about the symptoms of the peri/menopause because I had no idea that many of my symptoms were perimenopausal, educate your children and partners, ignore all the negative menopause coverage in the media ( I wrote an article about how I was having better sex in my 40’s than my 20’s after seeing yet another photo of a sad women sitting ont h end of the bed in the Mail online whcih ended up in the Mail online!) and numerous websites/celebrities touting products for the menopause to vulnerable women that are often detrimental to health or offer no benefit.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Still enjoying great sex and helping more women (and their partners) to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure too. Hopefully will have written my book about owning Jo Divine and being a sexual health and pleasure expert.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
I’m so lucky to have met and now work with amazing women campaigning for better education for everyone, including medical professionals, especially GPs so big shout out for Dr Louise Newson, Diane Danzebrink, Jane Lewis, Katie Taylor and Rachael Egderton plus my lovely husband Paul and three teenage children who are fabulous.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Can I have two? Diane Danzebrink #Make Menopause Matter campaigner and Jane Lewis, they have become firm friends and we can talk about anything, Jane and I are vagina warriors, she and I will never stop talking about vaginas, vulvas and sex!
Thank you Sam for a great interview about your journey and your fantastic campaigining for sexual health awareness which is helping so many women to regain their sex lives.
It’s menopause awareness month and we are very pleased to announce a well woman event!!
A little surprise in store as PeriMenoPost will be present too, come and say hello and join in the conversation about all things menopause.
Bella Vou Clinic, the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells is holding a well woman event. An evening of empowering and informative talks by womens health specialists.
The event is to be held at the Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG
26th Sept 7-9pm with host of speakers including question and answers.
Dr Marilyn Glenville PHD the UK’s leading nutritional specialist in women’s health will be discussing how to balance your hormones.
Dr Gail Ball is an experienced GP working within the NHS for womens health and sexual health in Brighton for 18 years.
Samantha Evans @samtalkssex @jodivine our competition winner!! Will be discussing sexual health and intimacy.
Pip Salmon is a clinical specialist physiotherapist an expert in pelvic floor and urinary incontinence. Pip will be sharing some tips and advice to help manage symptoms and giving you the confidence back to feel comfortable with your body.
Sandrine Gasnier the founder of Sandrines Pilates will be sharing some helpful exercises to regain pelvic floor muscle and strength, helping to control bladder, bowels and sexual energy.
Sue Hutchings owner of Knowle Grange Health Spa will be offering mini massage treatments during the event, Sue is a Reiki Master, Kinesiologist and personal trainer. Sue will be offering treatments during the evening event.
Nicola Pinkney is a MLD/DLT therapist who trained in the DR Vodder method of MLD for manual lymphatic drainage and decongestive lymphatic therapy. Nicola will also be providing treatments for the event.
PeriMenoPost will be joining in with questions and answers, so come and say hello!
www.bellavou.co.uk
Tickets are available from [email protected] or from www.eventbrite.co.uk/bellavou
Look forward to meeting you there Menos.
Competition time!!!!
If you would like to enter our weekly competition and win yourself an #undothemenotaboo t shirt, to enter you need to like our blog and then retweet or repost! you will be entered into a lucky dip. You may also be next weeks real life 60 seconds meno interview guest!!
Terms and conditions for competition;
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes an acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (17th Sept 2019 2pm closes (24th Sept 2pm)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platforms Twitter and INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Have a super week menos, keep shouting the word menopause out there!!
All of us together, we can normalise and make menopause become accepted within society. Contact PeriMenoPost today to talk menopause.
PeriMenoPost speaking at a Well Woman Event – BellaVou Clinic – to raise awareness and starting the conversation about menopause.
Digital mum peer group meet up in real life #queensofthesocialage
#QueensOfTheSocialAge
Digital Mum peer group.
@bemighty
@littlecambs
@socialfolke
@annamartinmedia
@perimenopost@lornaivemedia
@sketch @digitalmums
Sketch was the meeting venue for our “in real life” meet up during the weekend, what a very suitable social media venue! We absolutely loved it!
We had alot of fun, ate delicious cake, bubbles, G&T’s and alot of catching up to do. We had planned an afternoon tea to celebrate our passing and qualifying of the Digital Mums Social Media Strategist course.
These super talented ladies are awesome!!! Now firm friends and work colleagues within the world of social media management. We missed you @beautiful_iow Next year, going to be a yearly meetup!!
All through our training we helped, supported and encouraged one another. Pushing each other well and truly out from our comfort zones, helping each other with strategies and all whilst learning new skills. I could not have wished for a better peer group to be placed with all through our social media training and campaigns with digital mums!
A pleasure to have been placed in such an awesome peer group! Wahoo ladies!!
@socialfolke – All things social in Folkestone, Kent.
@bemighty -For working mums and flexible working.
@annamartinmedia – Super Social Media Strategy for business.
@littlecambs – the go to guide for little people in Cambridge.
@perimenopost – Menopause awareness and community.
@lornaivemedia – Social Media Strategy for business.
@thisbeautifulisland – A great guide to Isle of Wight.
@digitalmums – #learnin
I want to say a massive thank you to my fellow #queensofthesocialage and wish them all the very best of luck for their future social media careers. #socialmediastrategist
PeriMenoPost was asked to join in with questions and answers for @Bellavou Pantiles, clinic of Tunbridge Wells for their Well Woman Event held last week.
It was an absolute pleasure to be included with the fellow guests and speakers during the evening. The event was held at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells. Over 50 women turned up to listen to talks about womens health from a selected panel of speakers, a friendly, fun and informative evening.
The evening was a big success! A series of events will now follow, the next event will discuss menopause, we will be there to keep talking and breaking down the taboo and stigma surrounding menopause. The event will be held on the 7th of November 2019. To book your place email [email protected]
Come and say hello!
Dr Marilyn Glenville discussed how to balance hormones naturally with nutrition and a life style of self care. Reducing stress and eating a well balanced diet, supported with good vitamin and minerals. Dr Glenville explained how womens health can be affected by nutrition, stress and with help from the Glenville Clinic you can manage symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms and would like to have a consultation, contact the clinic;
Dr Gail Ball Spoke about the Well Woman Clinic, that is offered at the BellaVou Pantiles Clinic, in Tunbridge Wells.
Dr Gail Ball offers a personalised well woman screening to meet your needs. To book your consultation and to find out more – contact [email protected]
The Well Woman Clinic offers a well woman medical consultation, menopause management, Family planning and sexual health advice and personalised treatment. If you are expereincing symptoms contact BellaVou today to make your appointment with Dr Gail Ball.
Dr Gail Ball
Pip Salmon is a specialised womens health physiotherapist. Pip spoke in a very approachable and kind manner about how important it is to keep exercising the pelvic floor. A very helpful and informative talk, with easy to do exercises at any time to help you regain pelvic floor strength if you are suffering from stress incontinence. If you are experiencing symptoms contact Pip to make an appointment https://www.mtw.nhs.uk/service/physiotherapy/
Pip Salmon – Womens health physiotherapist
Sandrine founder of @sandrinespiltes lifestyle discussed her honest account of her journey and how pilates has helped her to regain her pelvic floor. Sandrine stressed how important it is for women to exercise and strengthen the pelvic floor especially after child birth and heading towards menopause. Sandrine encouraged the audience to join in with a pelvic floor exercise that she uses within her clientele at her studio to help them regain pelvic floor strength.
To book a class at Sandrines Pilates www.sandrinespilates.co.uk
Sandrine Gasnier
Founder Sandrines Pilates Lifestyle
Sue Hutchings, owner of Knowle Grange Health Spa in Frant, Tunbridge Wells and her team of assistants were ensuring everyone was relaxed and comfortable for the evening. Sue and her team offered a range of mini treatments and massages throughout the evening. Ladies were treated to a very relaxing treatment and the room smelt absolutely divine! To book a treatment contact https://www.knowlegrange.co.uk/
Sue Hutchings
Owner Knowle Grange Health Spa
Sam Evans @samtalkssex and Founder of Jo Divine, a company that is extremely passionate about raising sexual health awareness and providing information on a wide variety of sex toy aids. Sam gave helpful and informative advice to women about the importance of being aware of one’s sexual health. For further information contact Sam Evans at www.jodivine.com
Nikki Pinkney offers Manual Lymphatic Drainage therapy and deep oscillation therapy within BellaVou Clinic, Nikki offered helpful advice during the evening. Nikki is passionate about the effects of manual lymphatic drainage therapy to help patients post surgical surgery with patients recovering at a faster rate, providing a holistic treatment.
Contact Nikki Pinkney www.rejuvenate_mld.co.uk
As PeriMenoPost we gave helpful menopause friendly advice. Discussions with women about the different stages of menopause and how raising awareness locally was our mission. What we will be offering to the community in the format of menopause friendly workshops, meet mighty menos -coffee groups and social media management for menopause friendly products to local businesses. We will be present at the next BellaVou event, book your place at [email protected] Come and say hello.
PeriMenoPost and Pip Salmon
We feel there is still a very long road to go to breaking down the menopause taboo. The current and younger generation of women believe that they are no where near menopause and have not even heard of perimenopause. The older generation do not want to talk about it.
Younger women are not aware of the 34 menopause symptoms, they also do not know of perimenopause. This is in part due a generation of women with the lack of education and information from school sex education and with no information from GP’s. This has to be addressed. Older women have a sense of feeling that they are too old and do not need to be given advice. They feel they have managed and have gone through menopause and it is all final and that they do not need help. The older generation of women between Friends do not talk to each other about menopause. This is so sad and must be so lonely, this has to change and women of post menopause age must be helped to feel accepted and advised that there is help for them if they are suffering from symptoms and where to access the correct treatment.
Perimenopost wants to be here for all women of all stages of menopause early, perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. Women supporting one another, no one should sufffer in silence or be alone. As women we all experience menopause at some point in our lives, we must all support one another and help one another at a time when one needs supporting the most.
Our main goal is that the current women of the menopause age generation and younger women, are made aware of the symptoms and treatments available to them, to be able to talk about menopause openly and to feel accepted.
#UndoTheMenotaboo
This weeks Real Life 60 seconds guest is Aline Boblin, Aline is a menopause advocate and travels in her newly acquired broomstick! Read Alines incredible menopause journey and her interview.
Aline Boblin #MenoWarrior
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life #Menowarriors
I’m Aline Boblin, 51, French expat firmly grounded in the UK for the past 30 odd years, mother to a wonderful 22 year old daughter, single, a strong advocate of volunteering, and completing my Menopause journey recovery.
Aline Boblin #MeNoPause
#MakeMenopauseMatter
Lover of all things quirky, from burlesque and steampunk events, to pole fitness, to exploring the country in my campervan Broomstick, and ballroom dancing in aid of Cancer Research UK.
26 years of a great career in aerospace ended abruptly this year. My menopause journey is a great example of what has no need to happen these days. An extremely challenging 7 years, a wealth of positives along the way, especially in 2019.
I’m back to being me; I’m passionate in raising awareness of Menopause and a great supporter of empowering women through information to make the right choices for themselves and preventing other women facing the same difficulties during their menopause journey that I faced. #MakeMenopauseMatter
My personal challenge and focus are to see the volunteering I am doing in the Menopause arena lead to a paid employment in a philanthropic, fulfilling fashion, using the skillsets I have and feel re-energised to use and making a positive difference to menopausal women out there.
Baby steps though. ☺
#MeNoPause
1) Best Part of menopause?
Reconnecting with my self, greatly through CBT, holding precious this self-awareness of my physical and mental self, re-engaging with my values and ethos. #StillMe
Another enrichment continues to be learning so much about health and medicine and hormonal impacts on our physical and cognitive health and so much more. I’m very grateful to the groups and forums and social media savvy women, and men, who share evidence-based facts. They empower me and others in this field to take control of our future and our approach to the menopausal journey.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Holding my first Menopause Café in Solihull in July 2019 with co-conspirator Lesley Byrne.
Such a heart-warming feeling to see women openly and emotionally discussing their situation and share in the way women do, reaching out for and providing support to each other.
More to come including with Diane Danzebrink
Undoubtedly, starting HRT and taking that step towards being me again.
Buying Broomstick my campervan and travelling with her this Summer.
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Where do I start!
In 3 words: Losing my self.
There is indeed a very recurring theme to my journey ☺
I cannot summarise in a few words the myriad of symptoms and how they have impacted my quality of life, my emotional state, my cognitive abilities, and my general ability to deal with ‘normal’ life events and stresses, from my high powered job (I accepted redundancy after 5 months signed off by GP, the still bitter end of a 26 year career), to my relationship with my daughter (I lied to her about the gravity of insomnia and anxiety and working from home for about 2 months) and my now ex-partner, to my friendships and other family members (also lied to friends and family about the gravity of my situation, and stopped seeing many of them).
The most debilitating symptom was sleeplessness and insomnia over 7 years.
I stopped enjoying so much in life in those 7 years.
I know that, had I not been physically and mentally impaired by the peri menopause symptoms, I could have faced better all those challenges, and other family ones I have not shared here. I know it would have proved challenging and I would have had some usual ups and downs. And I also know I would not have lost myself and crashed in the manner I did end of October 2018 when Menopause overwhelmed me.
I am listing my symptoms below in the hope that it helps others realise the breadth of the way peri-menopause can affect a woman.
sleeplessness and insomnia for 7 years – this proved the most destabilising symptoms, the pillar that crumbled and took away my mental, cognitive and physical strengths. The impact on work was exponential and became catastrophic. I use many sleeping techniques including bedtime routines, healthy eating, meditation and more. These great tools and healthy habits weren’t enough though. HRT made such a positive difference. I now sleep through the night again and from 2-5 hours a week, my health monitoring partner FitBit tells me I sleep on average 6 hours a night. Result!!!!
anxiety for 6 months – Despite resisting my GP for several years, I even took antidepressants end 2018 out of desperation, which didn’t help, at all – I came off them gradually once HRT had stabilised most of my menopause symptoms and I was therefore more rested and stronger to face the withdrawal side effects.
low mood and irritability frequently over 5 years – back to their pre-peri-menopause so yes, still around but at much more acceptable levels, especially according to those around me ☺
brain fog most days for 5 years. This is pretty much gone although I can feel at times how sensitive I am to changes in estrogen levels and progesterone levels and how that impacts my cognitive abilities. This said, I am now mentally equipped to deal with these.
loss of self-confidence increasingly over those 7 years – I now have my mojo back! World beware…
poor concentration and poor memory for past 7 years and I accept that this still occurs at times though under control now
joint pains all over my body for 18 months, to the point of crying in pain at night sitting on the floor in the room farthest away from everyone so as not to disturb their sleep. This is at bay unless I reduce my estrogen gel by accident and as long as, for me, my Mirena coil is less than 4 years fitted (recommendation is 5 years, but that hasn’t worked for me). Eating lots of fish too and taking supplements for joint care, cause every little helps!!! Love the fact that I can now exercise and be more active without paying the price pain wise too.
dry itchy eyes for 3 years, this has now stopped and my ophthalmologist was amazed at the positive change in my eyes though not surprised once we discussed hormonal journey and estrogen use. Obviously all those little fishes eaten help too ☺
palpitation for 8 months, went away on its own before HRT but did get me into hospital briefly. I have my GP at the time to thank for helping work through the emotions these created and mindfully conquering them. Mind over matter can prove powerful indeed.
tension headaches most days for 7 years, now off the blood pressure medication I took for it for so many years to alleviate the symptoms. Greatly in my non-medical professional opinion linked to the lack of sleep. So energising to see that one go!
extremely heavy periods, rending me unable to work from the office or travel for work for 3 years; the situation rendered me so on edge, making me feel stressed, and anxious about managing work and such a noticeable problem, keeping change of clothes with me, dreading standing up from my seat in case I flooded; this was remedied through using the Mirena coil
itchy skin to the point of waking up scratching to blood. 2 long episodes over 7 months now gone. A horrendous summer of even less sleep and so many tears and emotional breakdowns. I was even referred to a consultant for this.
hot flushes and night sweats on and off over 7 years now gone. This was one of the least of my problems.
louder tinnitus for 7 years much improved now. I would never have thought fertility hormones played a part in the inner ear. The more fool me!
Oh the things I’ve learned medically on this journey! I absolutely love that side of the Menopause!!!!
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
Both
The NHS route proved painful, partly helpful for some symptoms but I was not treated properly as each symptom was taken in isolation over 7 years since 2012, some of them successfully patched up. I ended up seeing several consultants, taking a myriad of medicines to address what was in fact due to fertility hormone imbalance, including some HRT elements but without GP aiming for menopause HRT, and not using the options I would have chosen had I been offered accurate information on options, their risks and their benefits.
Then the Private Health avenue, which I reached out to after crashing emotionally and physically, and with timing corresponding to the end of my own personal research in what turned out to be the best option for me, HRT. I am so appreciative of the work Dr Louise Newson does and her wonderful team at her private clinic. So many synergies came out of going to her clinic’s open day this time last year.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
The short answer is a resounding NO.
Arguably, I also did not reach out to onsite out-sourced occupational health practitioner which my employer was keen to point out. But I was so determined to beat what was happening to me myself, to not show any weakness at work to my management, my peers, my team.
My employer, especially my management, was however unable to appreciate the impacts of increasing symptoms. I chose with GP’s support to work remotely and reduced hours to tackle my recovery. Comments were made to me ‘so, when are you coming back to work’ although I was working still, followed by ‘you know what I mean, when will you be back to normal’. Those words really stuck with me and hurt me and made me feel so inadequate and ashamed for not being able to cope. They angered me. They broke me. I still resent them.
Eventually, this toxic situation pushed me to accept to be signed off work in January 2019. It lasted almost 6 months. This was both tough because it removed a huge sense of purpose and affected my self-esteem, and also greatly beneficial because I eventually allowed myself to fully reach out to psychologist for CBT and to start physical recovery that HRT had started to induce through rebalancing hormones.
I have since then accepted redundancy.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
For me, HRT despite being a strong advocate of alternative medicine which I have used and still use extensively for over 30 years. HRT gives me today my quality of life back as well as long term protection against heart disease, bowel cancer, diabetes, vaginal and eye dryness, joints and muscles pain, osteoporosis and much more. I lead a mainly healthy, usually active life which research shows alleviate potential slight risks.
Alternative treatments can prove greatly helpful when be used in conjunction with HRT too.
HRT wise, I have a Mirena coil for progesterone, I take 4 pumps of Estrogel a day (2 am, 2 pm), I also take testosterone, one pump of Tostran twice a week. I take supplements too, key ones being magnesium, vitamin D3, fish oils and multivitamins.
I am not however a medical professional and therefore I would not state that HRT is the one and only option, nor the best option, for all women. The choices on menopause symptoms managements are numerous. Each woman has her own health history. Each woman should be able to review her options, to make an educated decision on the best option for herself, and to give informed consent for treatments with the support of knowledgeable medical professionals.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Educate yourself early on the potential challenges of menopause and watch out for the signs.
Keep strong and feel empowered to be your own advocate as soon as you realise your peri menopause phase may start.
Do not let your quality of life be impaired.
Do not suffer in silence.
Help is out there.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Oh that’s a tough one. I don’t tend to project myself in this way ☺
Enjoying life, that’s for sure!
Probably travelling in my newly acquired campervan, Broomstick, with a partner by my side, or not, and still working as a leading advocate of making menopause matter, rolling this out on an ad hoc basis through meno meetups in the community and workshops in the workplace as I think the journey to enlightenment on the Menopause front will have progressed extensively in next 10 years and will only require intermittent interventions.
Or something else. ☺
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
My wonderful daughter Eloïse who believes in me even when I don’t.
Joanna Corscaden, a significant contributor to the foundation of the Anne Robson Trust, who has been a rock of a friend for over 40 years and especially so in past 24 months.
Sarah S who identified when I was in need for support as exhausted and showing increasing signs of incoherent behaviour and called up a girlfriends meeting to get me to seek help.
Lesley Byrne who I met at Dr Newson’s clinic and who empowered me to focus on myself when all went pear shaped at work and I hit rock bottom.
All the women who dedicate their life to making a difference and their online resources and forums available for women like me to reach out to.
Dr Louise Newson for her relentless work in Menopause health at her Stratford upon Avon Clinic, her information site www.menopausedoctor.co.uk, her recent and easy to grasp new Menopause guide book
Jane Lewis for sharing such a personal story in Me and My Menopausal Vagina and her dedication to preventing vaginal atrophy happening for other women www.mymenopausalvagina.co.uk
10) Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Myself.
A short statement so much more charged in emotions than it might read.
Aline is wearing our #UndoTheMenoTaboo T-shirt- Looking forward to hearing all about Aline’s travels.
Thank you Aline for your honest and moving account of your menopause journey. We salute you!! Your journey will help other women to recognise symptoms and gain medical help.
Wishing you a very happy journey ahead and looking forward to hearing more of your travels with broomstick and to many more philanthropic stories.
If you would like to win a t-shirt like Aline Boblin, if you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog. Retweet our post to be in with your chance to win yourself a T-shirt and be our real life meno 60 seconds interview guest!
Terms and conditions for competition;
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes an acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (29th Sept 2019 11pm closes (4th Oct 11pm)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platforms Twitter and INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Have a great week Menos, keep smiling and talking to one another.
I feel HRT is somewhat like the menopause, everybody is different and the choice of HRT is varied. One woman’s menopause is a breeze whilst for another it can be debilitating and affects their quality of life. Some women are unfortunate that they cannot use HRT for medical reasons, this must be very tough for those women. They deserve a medal! Let’s hope that there is a breakthrough for those women.
When it comes to HRT, it’s similar in that what regime works for one person does not work for the next woman so to speak. Have you noticed that you have had to keep tweaking your regime? It becomes an ongoing process of trial and error to keep the level of hormones at the required level.
How do you know when it is working? Personally, energy was the biggest change for me, it returned!!!! My hair, nails and overall wellbeing improved for the better. So when it stops working, the symptoms can return;
Waking at night
Hot flush’s return
Anxiousness and irritability reappears
Bloating/weight gain
Mood changes – low, weepy
The dreaded tiredness and achy joints
Brainfog – the forgetfulness presents itself again
This can become frustrating as you begin to learn how to manage your treatment and then adjust to feeling better, when it returns it can set you back. It is important you establish a good relationship with your Gp or specialist to ensure that you work together to create a regime that is going to help you.
Try keeping a diary or a symptom chart to help you to keep a track of your symptoms. When you visit your Doctor this will help you to keep a record to show them and form a discussion prompt to help you gain the correct course of treatment. Also, this will help you too, for those days if you are feeling not quite yourself or our friend brain fog sets in, you will then see a pattern emerging that may be related to your hormones and HRT.
KEEP A DAILY TRACK OF SYMPTOMS AND TAKE THIS WITH YOU WHEN VISITING YOUR DOCTOR TO DISCUSS.
If you manage your menopause naturally, do you notice that you have a need to change certain elements to your regime? Have you tried alternative remedies to help manage alongside HRT or natural treatment for menopause?
Accupuncture
Reflexology
Aromatherapy
Massage
Exercise
Nutrition
Meditation
Yoga
Pilates
This weeks Real life 60 seconds meno is Hazel Hayden
This weeks Real life 60 seconds guest is Hazel Hayden. Hazel runs the Bristol Menopause and Well Woman Clinic, she is one incredible passionate lady who specialises in womens health and genuinely wants no woman to suffer from the symptoms that menopause may bring. Read Hazels interview – a real life #MenoWarrior
When I was peri-menopausal, I kept having mood swings and feeling low but I couldn’t understand why. I had a lovely husband, 2 gorgeous boys and a job I loved but every month I had a week of absolute torture. A colleague at work who had been through it herself suggested I needed HRT. I duly trotted off to my GP, who was a menopause expert, I was prescribed citalopram. Needless to say being a Nurse, I knew that this treatment would not work. I knew that if I started citalopram, I might never have come off them.
I still felt no better and was persistently going to my GP with different minor illnesses. These were treated individually, so I resorted to natural remedies, some helped a bit, some did nothing and were expensive. I decided to pay privately for treatment, after looking at the Menopause Matters website. A site of which 7 years ago was the only source of good menopause information.
I started HRT ( a combination that is routinely prescribed now but new then!!). Since then I have been on and off it a few times as I was experiencing problems with bleeding at times. I persevered and with some trial and error, I am now on a good combination that works for me. I continue to take Magnesium supplements, a probiotic, Co-enzyme Q10 and not forgetting Vitamin D with calcium.
Although my menopause clinic is a private clinic, I have strive to keep it as affordable as possible. I am aware of how hard it can be financially and as women, we always seem to put ourselves last.
I have undertaken extra training in Nutrition as well as the British Menopause Society specialist training.
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life #Menowarriors
1) Best Part of menopause?
My confidence once I started HRT.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Starting my own business.
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Anxiety and low mood.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
I did a combination of both NHS initally but was contantly offered anti-depressants so I decided to seek private health treatment for HRT, I now receive my treatment from NHS.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
I was not able to adjust the my working hours at my workplace so hence I have now set up my own business.
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
I use a combination of HRT and natural alternatives. At times I have used natural/alternative treatment alone but have often found that they help, but not as much as HRT works.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
To start exercising and eating healthy earlier as this will help to prepare you for the onslaught of peri-menopause and menopause. This is something, that I never realised before it started happening to me.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Running my business which helps women to navigate and achieve the best for themselves and how they feel. I enjoy travelling lots with my husband.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
I would like to give a shout out to my husband, Tim. Menopause Matters – my bible in the early years. My Menopause Doctor and the Portishead chiropractic clinic.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior? Dr Heather Currie, the Pausivity girls and Dr Louise Newson.
A big thankyou to Hazel Hayden for her interview, it is fantastic that Hazel is helping other women to find their way through the menopause. You can contact Hazel at the website – www.bristolmenopause.com or @Hazelhayden -Twitter
If you would like to win a t-shirt like Hazel Hayden and if you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog. Retweet our post to be in with your chance to win yourself a T-shirt and be our real life meno 60 seconds interview guest!
Terms and conditions for competition;
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes an acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (11th Oct 2019 5pm closes ( 18th Oct 5pm)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by periMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platforms Twitter and INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, periMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Yesterday marked #WorldMentalHealthDay2019 Menopause can bring with along 34 symptoms! amongst those Low mood, anxiety, low self esteem and depression can happen at a time when you are going through a big change to your body. If you are finding the menopause too much and hard to cope, find someone that you can talk to. Could be a friend, a colleague, a family member or your Gp. Be brave and take that step to ask for help, there will always be someone there to listen to you and give you support. Below are some links for you to contact if you feel you would need supporting.
www.mind.org
www.nhs.uk
www.sane.org.uk
www.mentalhealth.org.uk
www.rethink.org
Don’t suffer in silence, be kind to yourselves. Make that call today.
Have a great week Menos, keep smiling and talking to one another.
#WorldMenopauseDay was a day to celebrate menopause, albeit for just one day. But shouldn’t every day be a day to be more aware of early menopause, perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause?
Why do we not celebrate menopause?
Surely by talking, discussing and raising awareness this will help inform women of what to expect and to prepare for the symptoms that lay ahead.
Creating a positive mindset, through knowledge and support will ensure that menopause will be normalised and accepted for this stage of a woman’s life.
Let’s not keep it a secret anymore, nor an unspoken taboo or treat with stigma and avoidance.
#UndoTheMenoTaboo
As women let’s all be strong, be empowered and be proud of what this stage of life has to offer! #MenoWarriors
This could be the answer?
So what does menopause bring with it?
Ok, so there are 34 symptoms;
Anxiety.
Insomnia.
Hot Flushes.
Weight gain.
Mood swings.
Fatigue.
Low libido.
Dry skin.
Joint aches.
Palpitations.
Nights weats.
Irregular periods.
Low mood.
Brain fog.
Headaches.
Tinnitus.
Vaginal dryness.
Hair loss.
Dizziness.
Bloating.
Allergies.
Brittle nails.
Osteopororsis.
Bladder problems.
Breast pain.
Dental problems.
Nausea.
Body Odour changing.
A sense of panic.
Muscle tension.
Tingling sensation.
Electric shock.
Burning mouth.
Hair loss.
Irregular heartbeat.
Source: Megs Menopause www.megsmenopause.com.
Menopause is a natural, biological process that will happen to all women. Every woman will experience a different version of menopause, everyone is individual. No menopause is the same and everyone’s journey is so different.
Just think about what menopause has to offer?
No more periods.
No need for contraception.
No more childbirth.
Freedom.
Power to create the next chapter of your life..
Wisdom – having gone through the experience you can now offer advice and support to others, including your daughters, family members and friends.
Career – you can now focus on regaining your career or deciding to balance your life/work balance to make it easier for you to manage.
How has this made you feel? Does this fill you with a sense of new adventure? Has it left you feeling a sense of loss? Have you found this next stage energising? Have you made big life-changing decisions?
How can we manage menopause to maintain a good quality of life?
Selfcare.
Nutrition.
Exercise.
Hrt treatment.
Natural menopause.
Alternative remedies and treatments such as –
Acupuncture – reflexology – deep tissue massage – aromatherapy -mindfulness.
A good support network.
A good relationship with your healthcare expert – enabling you to feel comfortable discussing your symptoms and what is going to work best for you.
Be informed as you can, there are so many more helpful websites available now that offer advice and support for menopausal women.
The following websites offer information and support;
www.positivepause.co.uk
www.megsmenopause.co.uk
www.daisynetwork.co.uk
www.menopausesupport.co.uk
This week’s Real-life Meno 60 seconds interview guest is Jo McEwan, Co-Founder of PositivePause with fellow co-founder Ann Stephens.
Jo McEwan – Co-Founder PostivePause
Read Jo’s interview of her own personal journey through the stages of menopause and through the other side of menopause.
1)Best Part of menopause?
Happily, post-menopausal, it feels great on the other side, something that’s too often overlooked. With my kids grown up, I know that I’m lucky in that I’m not sandwiched between caring for an older and younger family, so I’ve got more time to prioritize work, pleasure and looking after number one. I feel completely energized now that I’m through menopause and I’m sure that it’s no coincidence.
2)Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Sitting in the gallery of the Houses of Parliament with Ann, co-founder of PP, listening to a debate on menopause we were delighted and very surprised to hear our website described by MP, Rachel McLean, as “incredible”. She said we “demystify some of the symptoms of menopause and to talk about them frankly.” As we’d just come from taking part in a Woman’s Hour discussion, it really was a day of #Menomoments!
3)What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Not being prepared for perimenopause made it feel so more perplexing than it needed to be. I felt totally wrong footed which seemed so at odds with what I thought I knew about my body – it turned out I knew very little indeed.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat
your menopause?
NHS all the way. I’ve been fortunate in being able to access excellent NHS support, but I wouldn’t hesitate to consult some of the great private practitioners that I’ve met through PositivePause.
5)Have you been supported within your workplace?
As a small business with just the two of us, deadlines and a raft of different pressures mean that perhaps we’re not as supportive of our own wellbeing as we should be. Note to self to look at this going forward!
6)HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
After a couple of years of hot flushes and soaring anxiety levels, and considering my own risk levels, I chose to take HRT. I don’t see HRT as a golden ticket, so I do try to ensure I get enough exercise, keep an eye on my diet and what I drink, sometimes the eye can wander! I think it’s important that women do what fits with their personal philosophy, do their research and make informed choices.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to
Perimenopause and Menopause?
Your symptoms creep up catching you out. Being aware of those early symptoms, (hello anxiety!), will make it less mysterious and discombobulating. Find out about what’s coming in advance.
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Fingers crossed – enjoying life, staying healthy and having little adventures with the husband.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who
has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through
menopause?
Dr Karen Morton’s been really supportive of our work both online and at our events. On a personal level, whenever I hear her talk at events she makes me laugh as well as taking away a practical, reassuring and supportive idea or two. So big shout out to Dr Karen!
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
I’ve recently met and had the pleasure of listening to talks by Jo Moseley, the voice behind the blog ‘Healthy Happy 50’, about how she navigated a tough perimenopause by getting on a paddleboard and taking on a massive challenge which has helped her physically, emotionally and creatively. She talks about it so powerfully, it resonates on so many levels! She’s my #Menowarrior.
Thank you, Jo, for your story. We need more discussions regarding post-menopause, thank you for highlighting and talking about this stage.
If you would like to follow Jo and Ann.
Visit their fab website www.positivepause.co.uk the website has a wealth of information and positive support to help you through the stages of menopause.
Would you like to be our next real-life Meno 60 secs interview guest?
If you would like to win a t-shirt like Jo McEwan and if you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog.
All you have to do is enter our competition!!
Full terms and conditions are below.
Retweet our post to be in with your chance to win yourself a T-shirt and be our real life Meno 60 seconds interview guest!
Terms and conditions for competition;
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (25th Oct 10pm closes ( 1st Nov 10pm)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by PeriMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platforms Twitter and INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, PeriMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Remember to turn the clocks back this weekend Menos, a well deserved lie in this weekend!!
Is there a history of Osteoporosis in your family?
Dropping levels of oestrogen is one of the effects of menopause that causes the thinning of bones.
Due to the falling oestrogen levels, women’s bones become thin and weaken and may be at risk from osteoporosis, Post menopause women need to be aware and vigilant of their bone health to protect themselves from any fractures. By making some changes to lifestyle in the form of exercise, diet and hrt you can make a difference to maintaning your bone health, supporting you during menopause and post menopause.
It is important to remain as active as much as you can.
As we age our bones become thinner and weaker. Being active and exercising this will help your bones to remain strong and healthy.
Exercise.
Diet.
Vitamin D.
HRT.
Try to maintain a low body weight, this can be hard during perimenopausae and menopause as you may experience fatigue, bloating, weight gain and have no energy. The last thing you want to do is exercise, but this will help you to feel better and maintain your weight. Try walking each day, or taking the stairs, walking to work where you can as possible. A home dvd workout, a you tube exercise video, try a class – go along with a friend for support. Why not enter a sponsored race/walk event?
Start with some small steps with one form of exercise, this could be a 15 minute walk and increase the time and distance each day.
Smoking, we know is not good for our health and it is not helpful with keeping our bones healthy, if possible do not smoke as this affects your bone tissue.
As much we love having the odd G&T or a glass of our favourite wine, it is now the time to drink in moderation. Alcohol can affect bone health, our overall health and if we drink too much we are inclined to fall over and have an accident. We have all been there a few times!! But as we age, in particular post menopause it can cause problems if you have weak bones or osteoporosis.
If you are concerned about your bone health and if you have experienced an early menopause before the age of 45 or a hysterectomy talk to your Gp to ask if you may have a DEXA scan to measure your bone density.
You can ask for supplements from your GP, chemist to help build calcium for your bone health.
Nutrition through your diet can also help to ensure your providing your bones with the correct vitamins, minerals needed to keep bone tissue healthy and strong.
Vitamin D is a great source for building bones and a general sense of well being. We all love the sunshine!! 20 minutes a day is needed to help you ensure you are providing your body with the correct amount of vitamin D for your bone tissue. Try and walk when the sun is shining, there is no better feeling in the world than walking in the sunshine.
Exercise is so important on so many levels, it helps to alleviate menopause symptoms. The endorphins from exercise make you feel fantastic and you’re also looking after your body and health at the same time.
It becomes even more important at this stage of post-menopause as you need to exercise to keep your bones strong and healthy. Important for your balance and coordination to keep you strong and alert.
Find a form of exercise that invigorates you, makes you feel good and most importantly that you enjoy!
walking
aerobics
dance
gym workout
weights
jogging
tennis
badminton
squash
cycling
swimming
yoga
pilates
Try and add into your exercise regime some weight bearing exercises. Bones need to be used to enable the bones to become stronger and flexible. This is important for bones, for example a body weight press up or some star jumps.
Once your bones become stronger the muscles will pull on the bones. The bones are receiving a kind of workout, as you get stronger you will then pull harder making the bones strengthen. If you workout from home or at the gym, use a resistance band or weights to help build the muscle and bone strength.
basketball, volleyball, track events, star jumps, tuck jumps, high level jumps. high impact
source Royal Society of Osteoporosis charity
For more help and information visit the website for the Royal Society of Osteoporosis www.theros.org.uk
HRT is also used to treat women for osteoporosis to help build bone strength, reduces bone loss and restores calcium. Speak to your Gp if you need more information and guidance.
This weeks Real life Meno 60 seconds interview is Ann Stephens, Co-Founder of Positivepause with fellow Co-Founder Jo McEwan. Read Ann’s interview, her personal perimenopause journey and how PositivePause was created.
Best part of Menopause? I’m 57 and technically still perimenopausal. Fingers crossed, potentially next summer I’ll have my menopause party! Since setting up PositivePause with co-founder Jo, I’ve met some incredible people, all sharing knowledge, experience and expertise to help other women be prepared and feel supported in what potentially is a very perplexing phase.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
After 18 months of research and planning, to press publish and launch our website on World menopause Day 2017, and within 3 months being invited on BBC Radio 4 Woman’s Hour feature on menopause.
3) What has been the worst part of your Menopause?
Not understanding that my anxiety, loss of confidence, brain fog, tearfulness and mood swings were due to perimenopausal hormone changes, and that I wasn’t going bonkers!
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
Neither. Setting up our website meant I did a huge amount of research. Needless to say I focused a lot on the psychological side. The more I understood how simple lifestyle changes could improve my moods and self-confidence the better I felt. I began exercising more, changed what and when I ate, and knew when I had to say no. I took charge of my health.
5)Have you been supported within your workplace?
I’ve been self-employed for 20 years. Before I understood that I was perimenopausal, I declined certain work as I was too anxious to cope. When I was at my worst I also had a job share teaching interior design, most of the staff were much younger, single, on dating apps, about to get married or have kids. Menopause was not something I thought they’d have any empathy with. Once I told them about the website we were developing, I became far more open and unabashed about discussing the topic. They’re now more aware of what to anticipate and know a great website to get the best info!
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
Natural. I take omega-3 fish oil supplements and vitamin D oral spray in the winter months. I’m not on HRT and I’m not against it. I know the wonders it’s done for so many women. Once I understood why I was experiencing my symptoms, I felt more in control. If I’d had the physical symptoms of hot flushes or vaginal dryness I would certainly take HRT.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Knowledge is power. Get clued up, don’t bury your head in the sand, menopause will come your way and it may not be what you anticipated. Understand what perimenopause is and be prepared so you know what options you have to manage your individual symptoms. Take control, if you’re not happy, talk to someone about it and don’t be embarrassed, it’s natural and you’re not alone.
8)Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Happier and healthier than I was in my late 40’s and early 50’s.
9)Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too? Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
I have huge respect for Dr Karen Morton. I was given her contact by a friend and she was so supportive when we were setting up our website. She’s since spoken at several of our events. She’s such an awesome woman, with so much drive, energy, passion, knowledge and understanding. I also have to mention my husband, who was at a loss to know what to do or say when I was at my worst. Once he understood why I’d turned into loose cannon of emotions, he’s become one of our greatest advocates.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
There are so many, although Harriet Beveridge manages to make a miserable topic a laugh a minute. We saw her stand-up act, menoPAUSE, in Edinburgh and following that we invited her to MC and perform her act at both our PositivePause Feelgood Fairs. I could empathise with her experience, she’s a bright educated and articulate woman who was also clueless about perimenopause. She turned her story into comedy, and we created a website. Our messages are the same – be prepared for perimenopause.
Thank you Ann, for your story, looking forward to hearing about your menopause party!
Jo and Ann have created a fantastic website to help women be guided through the stages of menopause with helpful, positive and fun information.
The PositivePause ladies can be found at their fabulous website
www.positivepause.co.uk and via social media.
Would you like to be our next real-life meno 60 seconds interview guest?
If you would like to win a t-shirt and if you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog.
All you have to do is enter our competition!!!
Full terms and conditions are below.
Retweet our post to be in with your chance to win yourself a #UndoTheMenoTaboo t-shirt and be our real life meno 60 seconds interview guest!
Terms and conditions for competition;
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (3rd Nov 9pm closes ( 10th Nov 9pm)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by PeriMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platforms Twitter and INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, PeriMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Remember to treat yourselves with kindness and pay attention to what your body is trying to tell you. There is only one of you, you are important!!
Make that time this week to relax, pamper and put yourself first. You may take some advice from our real life meno 60 seconds interview Ann Stephens, or use some of the tips on how to ensure you look after your bone health and be more informed about osteoporosis.
This wednesday is #StressAwarenessDay
How will you put into practice self care and making time for you?
We have some exciting articles to share with you, keep posted for new blogs.
Have a super week Menos, keep smiling and stay positive!
Has the menopause changed your relationship with your partner? Are you at a crossroads with your sex life due to menopause?
When menopause arrives it can unexpectedly create a curve ball within your relationship. You are suddenly dealing with your hormones that are changing constantly, going up and down and with it the many added physical symptoms.
It is of no surprise that your relationship with your partner may become strained during this time. It is important to talk to your partner and tell them how you are feeling and for you both to be patient and understanding. Your partner may be feeling completely at a loss too, with the sudden change in your relationship.
It’s important that you talk with your partner and your Gp about your symptoms.
During this time of change, why not try something new as a couple? Dancing, exercise togther – set a challenge and why not sign up for a race or event. Discover a new hobby, see some shows, concerts or take a spontaneous trip somewhere.
A positive mindset and talking to one another can help you get through this time, it is another chapter of your journey together try and make time to have some fun.
Enjoying Midlife Sex
By Sam Evans
We are very fortunate this week to be able to share with you a great blog from Samantha Evans, PeriMenoPost is proud to call a Menomate!
Twitter – @samtalkssex @jodivineuk a sexual health and pleasure expert.
Sam Evans lives locally in Tunbridge Wells and is a passionate advocate for ensuring women are correctly informed about their sexual health, she works tirelessly to ensure that women do not suffer, are in no pain or discomfort and that they are able to enjoy a fulfilled sex life. I have had the pleasure of hearing Sam talk at a local well woman event and Sam is great fun, incredibly knowledgable about all things sex, sex toys and lubricants. Sam is dedicated to making a change to womens sexual health and helping couples to be just as intimate as they always have been.
If you have experienced issues with intimacy and if your sexual health has been affected, read sams article. Sam provides positive, informative and helpful suggestions to help you regain a healthy sex life again.
“Samantha Evans”:https://www.jodivine.com/authors/samantha-evans co-founded Jo Divine, an online sex toy company, with her husband Paul in 2007 which only sells skin safe sex toys and sexual lubricants.
Having a professional background in nursing, she is a features writer and sexual health and pleasure expert for Jo Divine. She works with many healthcare professionals in the NHS and private practice to help them advise their patients about regaining sexual function and enjoying sexual intimacy and pleasure through the use of suitable sex toys, dilators and sexual lubricants.
With an extensive knowledge about sex toys and sexual lubricants, Samantha enjoys creating informative, practical articles about sexual health and pleasure which endeavour to normalise sex, help people to talk about it and discover ways to enjoy sex in whatever way they want to or are able to. She has also been featured extensively in the media
As a menopausal woman she also advises women going through the menopause and beyond about ways to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure as this is often a time when many couples give up on their sex lives due to the impact of menopausal health issues that affect their intimacy and pleasure.
As we get older our sex drive and sexual sensation can change, especially when dealing with a myriad of perimenopausal/menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness or atrophy, decreased sexual sensation or low libido making sex feel painful, uncomfortable or simply not working for you anymore.
Often women give up on sex or continue to endure painful sex which is neither pleasurable, good for their vagina health or their relationship. Women who previously had a good sex life may get frustrated that the menopause has impacted upon their sex life in this way too.
However with a few tweaks to your relationship and the way in which you enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure, you can continue to enjoy sex, even discovering new ways to make it more pleasurable
Talk to your Partner
This is the commonest reasons why couples give up on midlife sex because they are unable to talk to each other. Your partner probably has no idea about how you are feeling and may think you no longer love or desire them so it is important to tell them why you do not want to have sex or why it no longer feels pleasurable.
Over time, our sexual tastes, sensation, stimulation and attraction change so explore new ways to enjoy intimacy. What might have worked for you or your partner in the past may not work now so show each other where and how you like to be touched, make sounds of pleasure to encourage them when they hit the right spot. Try new positions, prolonged foreplay, quickie sex, simple sex toys, enjoy hotel sex, whatever makes you both feel good.
Share your fantasies, you may discover that some of them are the same. You might even want to act some of them out too!
Use A Good Lube!
Vagina dryness affects women of all ages due to hormones, breastfeeding, medication, cancer treatments, stress, anxiety and especially the ageing process.
One simple way to make sex feel pleasurable, last longer and promote vaginal lubrication is to use lubricant. Do not think of lubricants as just fixing a problem, using a good pH balalanced sexual lubricant can make “ok sex” feel great.
I put YES organic oil based lubricant on before foreplay to get things going which really helps, you may only want to apply it for penetrative sex or other sex play, experiment with what works for you. Always stop if sex feels painful.
It may take time to get used to using a sexual lubricant for both you and your partner which is why it is important to use a good sexual lubricant, a product free from irritating ingredients that has been designed for sex play, not something from your bathroom or kitchen cupboard. Many couples try a lubricant, find that it causes irritation or even thrush, think all lubricants are the same which is not the case so avoid lubricants.
Using a pH balanced lubricant such as YES organic lubricants and vaginal moisturisers, free for irritating ingredients not only makes sex feel more pleasurable and last longer but also keeps your vagina and vulva happy and healthy, especially as we get older.
A Healthy Vagina is A Happy Vagina
Many people care about what they eat or use on their face, hair and body but do not give a thought to what they are putting on their vulva and inside their vagina or anus yet these are highly absorbent and sensitive intimate parts of our body.
Having had my own sex life and vagina health destroyed in my 20’s and 30’s by using KY and other well known lubricant brands and feminine hygiene products still available on the high street today which caused recurrent thrush, bacterial vaginosis ( a vaginal infection with a fishy smell which requires anitbiotic treatment), cystitis and urinary tract infections this led to vaginismus whereby the muscles of the vagina constrict, making penetration either impossible or feel painful.
Through my own research and discovering “YES organic lubricants”:https://www.jodivine.com/articles/sex-tips/want-better-sex-use-lube I found that many commercial lubricants/moisturisers and feminine hygiene products contain ingredients including glycerin, propylene glycol, parabens, perfume and dyes in addition to “tingling” or “warming “ ingredients which can irritate the tissues of the vulva and vagina, disrupting the delicate pH of the vagina which may cause thrush or bacterial vaginosis, especially if you are prone to these infections.
Many water based formulations have a high osmolarity so exacerbate vaginal dryness by drawing moisture from the walls of the vagina not hydrating them.
Always check the ingredients before you buy or ask your GP before they prescribe you a product and do a skin test before rubbing it over your clitoris, nothing worse than an itchy or stinging vulva or vagina! Be aware that some well known brands do not put the ingredients on the box or label so choose a product that has an ingredients label.
Feminine hygiene products, scented menstrual products and perfumed condoms are completely unnecessary as our vaginas are self cleaning and all you will do is disrupt the vagina pH which will lead to irritation, an infection and make your vagina/vulva feel sore.
I keep my vagina and vulva happy by using YES oil based organic lubricant for sex and when using sex toys, YES vaginal moisturiser twice weekly and Vagifem, a local oestrogen pessary three times weekly. For those worried about using HRT, local oestrogen is not absorbed systemically (into the bloodstream), it is absorbed directly into the walls of the vagina and into the skin of the vulva, replacing the depleting oestrogen to keep the skin healthy and flexible. The depleting oestrogen makes the tissues of the vagina and vulva shrink and thin, leaving them feeling sore, less well lubricated and the vagina tightens, making penetration feel sore or painful. It can also lead to thrush or other vaginal infections and irritation. Local oestrogen is the equivalent of taking one HRT tablet each year so an incredibly small amount of oestrogen which can make a huge difference to your vagina/vula health and your sexual pleasure too.
Regular Orgasms are Good for You
Orgasms are fun, free and good for your health!
Enjoying regular orgasms with a partner or during solo play using your fingers or a sex toy can increase your vaginal lubrication, help you begin to feel more sexual if you are struggling with your libido, reduce stress, boost immunity, keep you looking young and exercise your pelvic floor. Orgasms can also improve the quality of your sleep, a common problem during menopause, as the release of feel good endorphins induces a state of relaxation helping you drift off.
Often during menopause our ability to orgasm may take longer or it may not feel as pleasurable so I often recommend using a “simple bullet vibrator”:https://www.jodivine.com/articles/buyers-guides/bullet-vibrators either for solo play or with a partner. Small enough to slip between yourself and your partner, bullets can also be used on partners with a penis and on nipples too.
Men can benefit from enjoying regular orgasms because they can improve prostate health and help to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Regular ejaculation flushes out prostate fluid in the prostate gland which can stagnate and become inflamed leading to an enlarged prostate which causes pain, increases the need to pee and difficulty in emptying the bladder.
Kick start your Libido
Sometimes it can be really hard just to make the effort to have sex so take the focus of penetrative sex if this is how you normally enjoy sex with a partner and enjoy non penetrative sex play. Enjoy kissing, cuddling, body massage, gentle touch with fingers, silky ribbons, feathers, mutual masturbation with a good pH balanced sexual lubricant, nipple play. Having regular orgasms can help to kick start your libido and arousal so indulge in a long bath and take your favourite waterproof sex toy with you, grab some self care time alone or share your sex toy with your partner. Show them how it works for you, use it on their body.
Exercise those Pelvic Floor Muscles
Regular pelvic floor exercises can make orgasms feel stronger and help incontinence issues. However, some women have a tight pelvic floor which can make penetrative sex feel painful. If you are unsure how to do your pelvic floor exercises or if you think you have a weak or tight pelvic floor, a pelvic health physiotherapist is the best person to see. They are the experts in pelvic health and will be able to assess your pelvic floor muscles, offering practical exercises to strengthen or release your pelvic floor. Many work in the NHS so ask your GP to refer you. You can also self refer to those working in private practice too.
Explore Sex Toys
Incorporating sex toys into your sex play can help you enjoy new ways to be intimate and discover new sexual sensations especially if you find yourself struggling to orgasm or it takes longer due to decreased sexual sensation.
A simple bullet vibrator is small enough to slip between you and a partner to enjoy clitoral stimulation during penetrative sex or foreplay. You can use it on yourself, get your partner to use it on you or play with it on their body.If vaginal tightness is an issue, using a slim vibrator or dilator with plenty of lubricant can help stretch the vagina walls, making them more flexible and penetrative sex feel more pleasurable.
Vibrating constriction rings are a great way to help a man maintain his erection, last longer and offer clitoral stimulation at the same .
Sex is not just penetration – enjoying prolonged sex play might be all you want. Explore sex toys, oral sex, bondage, nipple play, mutual masturbation, kissing and intimate massage.
Don’t give up on your sex life, talk to your partner, use a good pH balanced sexual lubricant, masturbate more, explore sex toys, do your pelvic floor exercises, be imaginative, adventurous and have fun in whatever way feels pleasurable for you!
At Jo Divine we believe that sexual health and sexual pleasure go hand in hand and have created a health brochure with suitable products to help people with sexual issues. Working with medical professionals, we hope to encourage patients and HCPs alike in talking more freely about sexual problems. A health issue doesn’t mean your sex life will have to stop!
Thank you Sam for your helpful and informative feature, women will now be informed and have the knowledge to ask their health care professional more questions and gain the correct course of treatment that they rightly deserve.
You can follow Sam on Twitter @SamtalksSex @jodivineuk or via her website for products and information www.jodivine.com / Instagram @Jo.divine
This week’s real life meno 60 seconds interview guest is Jo Moseley, AKA the Paddle board super hero!
Jo is the first woman within the UK to stand up paddleboard – S U P from coast to coast!!
One awesome real-life meno warrior!!!
Since turning 50, Jo has begun her personal quest and journey of paddleboarding and helping to clean up the environment along the waterways as she travels. Jo takes you on a journey aboard her paddleboard, giving you a refreshing view of life upon the UK’s waterways, scenery, seasons, every type of weather and the wildlife she encounters along the way. Her passion is clear and is infectious, making you feel that you too could jump on a paddleboard, enjoy nature and join her on her mission to help make a difference to the environment.
Jo is passionate about the environment and is actively involved in the #2minutebeachclean and also an active member of the wave project, a surf therapy charity for children in the UK.
This year saw Jo complete the #paddleboardthenorthchallenge!! It was a joy to follow her adventures via social media. Adding to Jo’s talents and comitment to her cause she has just won the 2019 Smart award for Best Bradford Film!! Congratulations Jo we are all behind you, all the way!
Nothing is going to stop Jo, not even menopause! She is enjoying this stage of her life and being able to experience the freedom, joy, exhilaration and the feeling of being alive out on the water. Read Jo’s menopause journey and how she has found a new sense of energy and zest for life.
Jo Moseley @Healthyhappy50
#2minutebeachclean #paddleboardthenorth
2019 Smart Award winner Best Bradford Film
1) Best Part of menopause?
Ooh interesting! I think because the perimenopause broke me when I was already down, the healing & learning is the best part. I had to start looking after myself because I was at such a low point & that has been an interesting & empowering journey. I’ve made friendships, learned skills, gone on adventures & found my creative & personal voice.
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Ooh I think paddleboarding into Goole this summer in a huge thunderstorm followed by a beautiful rainbow. I had completed my 162 mile coast to coast fundraising & litter picking adventure. As the first woman to do so & at 54, it made me feel like I had achieved something not just for me but for women in their 50s and those going through the menopause.
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Sleepless nights, crippling anxiety, joint pains & feeling like I was lost.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treatyour menopause?
I haven’t really been treated with either route. I’ve researched & found my own answers. I am however aware that I am very fortunate in that I’ve been able to do this. If I were to seek treatment, it would be NHS.
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
I haven’t really needed to ask for support. I work in a very kind environment anyway so I am fortunate. My colleagues do comment on how warm I like to keep my office and why I am wearing 3 jumpers in summer! I get cold flushes!
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior toPerimenopause and Menopause?
Look after yourself more! Put yourself on the priority list! Move, say no to things that don’t bring you joy, stop volunteering for everything, be kinder to yourself, go to bed early. You don’t have to be superwoman! Also read up on the perimenopause & what it’s all about. You think you have to do everything on your own as a single Mum but you don’t. It’s ok to ask for help. Look after your bone health!
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Ooh I hope taking women out on the water on Paddleboarding retreats, litter picking, stretching & having delicious food. Helping women feel like warrior women on the water. Spending more time at the coast & in the sea. Writing & speaking about adventures, wellbeing in menopause & midlife purpose & reinvention.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too?
Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause?
Ooh great question! Definitely a shout out to Deborah Garlick of Henpicked. I think they were the first online community I discovered who even talked about the menopause openly. I learned so much and was grateful to contribute to their book. That was 4 or 5 years ago. Rachel from Magnificent Midlife has been sharing huge amounts of very valuable information for years too. Also Jo & Anne from Positive Pause and Jane from Meno & Me for inviting me to talk at their respective menopause events this autumn. A privilege & honour. Angela from Behind The Woman is brilliant too. My friend Sam Bunch who wrote a fab, funny book Menopause – A Hot Topic. Basically, we are lifting and supporting each other.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
Ooh Jane Dowling. She gives 110% every day on social media. Sharing her journey, answering questions, supporting and just being incredible. Her exercise videos on Instagram are so helpful. Such a star!
Thank you Jo for your story, we are looking forward to hearing about your sup adventures! The retreats sound great, keep us all posted.
You can keep up to date with Jo’s adventures and follow her at;
Twitter @Healthyhappy50
Instagram @healthyhappy50
Would you like to be our next real-life meno 60 seconds interview guest?
If you would like to win a t-shirt and if you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog.
All you have to do is enter our competition!!!
Full terms and conditions are below.
Retweet our post to be in with your chance to win yourself a #UndoTheMenoTaboo t-shirt and be our real life meno 60 seconds interview guest!
Terms and conditions for competition;
Please read these terms carefully before entering the competition.
Entering the competition constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.
The Competition is only open to (UK RESIDENTS)
The Competition is open to any resident of the United Kingdom over 18 years of age
Automated or bulk entries from third parties will be disqualified.
● We reserve the right to exclude serial competition entrants who have entered more than 4 competitions in the last month.
● There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.
The Competition opens on (24th Nov 2019 8pm) closes ( 1st Dec 2019 8pm)
Entrants can enter at any point between these dates.
To enter the competition entrants will need to like the post and follow us
● Entrants can only enter the Competition once, but can like, regram/repost comment, tweet and RT as many times as they like
● The winner will be selected (Selected at random from list)
The winner will be selected at random from the list of entrants. Names will be entered into a spreadsheet and numbered and a member of staff that has not seen the spreadsheet will choose a number between x and y who shall be the winner.
● The winner will be notified by DM within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner will be notified via DM on Instagram within 14 days of the closing date.
● The prize for winning the competition will be (White Printed T-Shirt Value RRP 15.00GBP)
● The Prize as stated and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash, goods or services. Unless specifically agreed in writing by PeriMenoPost) ● The Prize is not transferable and must be accepted by the winner
PerimenoPost reserve the right to use the voice, image, photograph, name and likeness of the winners for publicity and in advertising, marketing or promotional material without additional compensation or prior notice to the winners. In entering the Competition, all participants consent to such use of their voice, image, photograph, name and likeness.
● Copyright of any material produced as part of the competition is owned by PeriMenoPost and/or its content suppliers.
● Unauthorised use of the material produced as part of this competition, including reproduction, storage, modification, distribution or publication without the prior written consent of PeriMenoPost or, where applicable, the respective competition entrant is prohibited.
● Where you are able to submit any contribution to this competition you agree, by submitting your contribution, to grant PeriMenoPost a perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sub-licenseable right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, perform, play, and exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to your contribution worldwide and/or to incorporate your contribution in other works in any media now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in your contribution. If you do not want to grant PeriMenoPost the rights set out above, please do not submit your contribution to PeriMenoPost
● By submitting your contribution to PeriMenoPost you warrant that your contribution is your own original work and that you have the right to make it available to PeriMenoPost for any or all of the purposes specified above. Furthermore, you warrant your contribution is not defamatory, does not infringe any law, you indemnify PeriMenoPost against all legal fees, damages and other expenses that may be incurred by PeriMenoPost as a result of your breach of the above warranty and waive any moral rights in your contribution for the purposes of its submission to and publication on the Site and the purposes specified above.
Data protection
● You consent to your first name, photograph and social media handles about you being disclosed on PeriMenoPost digital channels or other media if you win any Prizes under the Competition
● Any personal data relating to participants will be used solely in accordance with UK data regulations and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. To find out more about what data we hold and how we process data please read our privacy policy We follow Instagram Privacy policy, details will be destroyed 14 days after competition ends.
● By entering the Competition, you agree that PeriMenoPost may contact you in relation to the Competition. Absolving responsibility of the social platforms
● This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, platforms Twitter and INSTAGRAM or any other social network General liability cover ● PeriMenoPost do not accept liability for any damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential damages, loss of profits, or any damages whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with the competition. ● Except in the case of death or personal injury arising from its negligence, or in respect of fraud, and so far as is permitted by law, PeriMenoPost and its associated companies and agents and distributors exclude responsibility and all liabilities, whether direct or indirect, arising from: ● any postponement or cancellation of the Competition; ● any changes to, supply of or use of the Prize; and ● any act or default of any supplier, which are beyond PeriMenoPost
Christmas is fast approaching, the season will soon be upon us, how does this make you feel menos?
Are you already feeling the burden of all the season necessities falling on your shoulders?
Are you aware of what is giving you stress or anxiety for the christmas season?
This week give yourself some time to sit down and make a christmas plan to help you manage through christmas, identify what is already causing you stress?
Make a plan to delegate jobs, if you are sharing christmas with family members. Schedule in time for you to take a break, a walk in the fresh air, a quiet time to read a christmas novel or magazine. Set yourself limits as to how you want to spend christmas, practice self care even if it means you need to take a nap if your body is tired!
Remember how important selfcare is when managing menopause symptoms and how to look after yourself with some early nights, healthy eating and exercise this will all help to make you feel so much better.
What a year it has been for menopause! It was great to be a part of the summer menopause awareness that occurred through social media and national tv and press. Perimenopause, early menopause, menopause and post menopause is now being discussed more openly.
Menopause within the workplace is now being taken seriously and women are able to access help and support from their employers.
There is still some way to go but we are heading in the right direction to help the younger generation to know what to expect and for the current menopause age woman to gain much more information and support.
If you have been following PeriMenoPost on social media you’ll know that not only do we talk socially about Menopause on all things digital but we can also help your business/brand to talk menopause friendly too!
I am Lorna Ive Founder of @PeriMenoPost and a digital mum graduate. PeriMenoPost can help your business to grow with strategic social media management.
I had a bolt of inspiration to help other women going through all stages of menopause. I wanted to create an online tool to help provide women with a friendly, fun and informative community. Navigating women through the rollercoaster ride of menopause with the help of social media platforms, Twitter – Facebook and Instagram with a weekly blog and competitions.
Perimenopost began as my campaign in January 2019 for my digital mums training, I was then able to put my lightbulb idea I had formed into action!! Perimenopost has helped to make menopause become more accepted and discussed in social conversations online and in real life.
Is your brand talking menopause friendly?
Do you have a business or brand that you feel can help women manage their perimenopause or menopause journey? Are you a brand that would like to reach out to the menopausal woman?
No longer a taboo, menopause conversations are now taking place. Let your business join in the conversation and help to raise brand awarenes and helping women at the same time.
Let perimenopost take your brand to the next level and create a winning formula!
Perimenopost is a resource for women to use online to be a part of a friendly, fun and informative community, to gain further information and understanding with a postive mindset helping to make informed choices.
Contact PeriMenoPost today.
www.perimenopost.com
@PeriMenoPost twitter
@Perimenopost instagram
@PerimenoPost Facebook
Starting the conversation about all things #earlymenopause #Perimenopause #Menopause and #postmenopause. Breaking down the taboo one post at a time ..
@lornaivemedia
This week’s real life meno 60 seconds interview is Jane Milner, read Jane’s story of her journey with menopause and her own personal story.
PeriMenoPost 60 Second interview with real life #Menowarriors
1) Best Part of menopause?
Being able to blame everything on the menopause!
2) Tell us your best #Menomoment?
Understanding that everything I was feeling was due to the menopause and that I wasn’t having another breakdown. I’d been very worried about a deterioration in my mental health, and the thought of another period of mental illness had been quite overwhelming, so to learn there was an explanation for it was a huge relief.
3) What has been the worst part of your menopause?
Currently, appalling skin. Dry , itchy, red, inflamed, spots (I appear to be 15 again!), hives, you name it. It’s driving me scatty.
4) Have you taken the NHS or Private Health route to treat your menopause?
NHS
5) Have you been supported within your workplace?
Yes, in the sense we have a very open and honest work environment, and there are colleagues going through it as well. My boss has also been very understanding as I’ve kept him fully informed of what I’ve been feeling/experiencing in so far as I feel it may be affecting work. He probably sometimes thinks it’s TMI but I tell him anyway!
6) HRT or natural/alternative treatment for Menopause?
I’ll try anything! Currently awaiting HRT (long story), but also taking High strength evening primrose, and a “menopause support” type supplement.
7) What advice would you give to a younger you prior to Perimenopause and Menopause?
Be more prepared. I had no point if reference as my Mum died young, so I think I presumed I was too young (I’m 49). Also, research possible symptoms. I had no idea of the range of things that could happen – see answer 3!)
8) Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Without a lottery win? Still working, but hopefully fewer hours than I do now. Still in this house but hopefully having been able to do all the work to it that I would like, and still with the boyf – we’ve been together less than 2 years, but he’s a keeper.
9) Who would you like to give a shout out – mention too?
Who has been supportive and instrumental in helping you through menopause? Shout out to every other woman to whom I’ve said “I’m menopausal” who has given me that knowing murmur of understanding, or shared symptoms, or remedies or idea for coping. It’s so reassuring to know you’re not alone through it.
10)Who is your favourite #Menowarrior?
I adore broadcaster Jane Garvey, she’s intelligent and funny and an absolutely fierce champion of women and our issues and rights. Being able to hear someone talk openly about their own experience on national radio brings a normality to the situation which really helps. If you haven’t discovered the Fortunately podcast with Jane and Fi Glover, you’re missing a joy, I can’t recommend it highly enough – you can thank me later 😉
Jane Milner @FannyIngabout – Twitter
Thank you Jane for your story and thank you for the fortunately podcast suggestion, sounds very empowering and interesting! Thankyou for raising awareness about how menopause can make changes to your skin, this came as a surprise to myself too! Fingers crossed that you win the lottery!
You can follow Jane Milner at Twitter @FannyIngabout
If you would like to take part in a Real life Meno 60 seconds interview, Direct message PeriMenoPost.
Christmas will be upon us before we know it, as women we like to rush around and do absolutely everything! Does this sound familiar?
Before the busy weeks arrive, why not take some time during the day just for you. This could be a peaceful walk, visit a friend, join in with christmas carols to get in the festive mood! Even a cheeky nap! Whatever you need to help you get through the season feeling positive and refreshed, it is a time of giving, why not give some important time to yourself.
Try not to over burden yourself with too many lists, chores and parties! A christmas film and mince pie does wonders!!
Let me introduce myself to you, I am a middle aged Mum of four children, happily married and living in East Sussex. If you had asked me 8 years ago that I would be blogging to you to highlight the menopause I would probably have dismissed it and laughed, “Not me!” Wrong!
Upon reflection, looking back at my early menopause symptoms, they started around the age of 35 with heavy periods. I put this down to just being “me”, I must of been the only woman to have had continuous problems and suffering with periods, PMT and pain. I had absolutely no idea of what was lying in wait for me … My main symptoms being that I was having heavy periods and pain.
My Doctors and Family suggested that I have a Hysterectomy. I received no information that having this would force me into a Menopause. I had four young children at that time and I was still quite young in terms of family life. The idea of having this procedure could of been a living hell and I just did not feel ready to have such a huge life changing operation at that moment in time. Exactly six months before my 40th Birthday, a milestone that was looming over me.
They say life begins at 40. But for me the bleeding started and it never stopped. This was the start of the horrendous rollercoaster of visits to Doctors, Specialists, various scans, X-Rays and tests but to no avail, it was just “me:” I felt l was swimming in a sea of loneliness and confusion at a very vulnerable time. I had no idea what was happening to my body and my overall well being, I just knew that something was not right.
At 43 years old with an unhelpful GP I battled through. I was keeping diaries, seeing specialists, having scans; tests, taking supplements, diet and exercise. However, there does a come a point when you think to yourself it is just “me” and question “why is this happening to me?” You can’t quite put your finger on it, all you know is that it can be debilitating and life changing. None of my friends or family really could relate or understand, no one else was having such issues. Before my 45th Birthday, my symptoms cranked up big time and I experienced insomnia, fatigue, hot flushes, and anxiety. I was really struggling by this stage.
I luckily changed GP, this was a defining moment for myself. A supportive GP and their time was all it took to help and guide me. I was fortunate enough to be referred to a local Gynaecologist – a man, who simply said to me “have you had your hormones tested?” “no” I replied, “you could be having an early Menopause” “No, not me surely not, I’m too young” That’s when I came to a realisation of the journey that I had been on, it hit me like a car crash as to what I had been dealing with. On one hand I felt relief with the knowledge, but at the same time a sense of great loss of myself poured over me. I felt Waves of emotions that would come and go, it was very distressing and came as a huge shock.
I realised at this point that no one speaks of the Menopause and most definitely not an early Menopause. Whether it is a generation issue or one’s own pride. Women do not talk about it. This needs to change (pardon the pun), women need to know what to expect and be prepared for when it comes. It can feel a very lonely place as you do feel different. I experienced feelings of anger as I felt I was not ready to have this happen to me and that It had never occured to me that I was in the throes of an early Menopause.
I was prescribed HRT and I can honestly say it has changed my quality of life. My hormone levels were alarmingly low and this spurred me to make the decision that I made to take HRT I wanted control back over my life. I did not want the Menopause to control or define me any more. Perimenopost is my vision to help women through this stage of life with knowledge, empowerment, friendship and care. When I went through this, there was no local information.
Locally there is no information available it is still non existent. Perimenopost will be a resource for all women, local and across the country to use for a sense of self worth and to know that they are not alone. I will share with you weekly, what has worked for myself and what is available out there to help women like you.
No, nor did I. This one came as a bit of a shock!!
I’m not preaching that I’m a 100% confident person, but then is everybody that confident? Yes, I have experienced nerves just like you all and the whole population. Taking my Driving test, going to interviews, personal life events, even starting this blog! You can learn from them and cope with it as best as you can at that time.
But this symptom literally hit me like a bolt from the blue, it came with no warning and no trigger. At first, I thought I was having a stroke or a heart attack, the mind already going into overdrive! Thankfully, I now know this was not the case, it was just our old friend, anxiety.
It can come to strike, well for me, at any given moment. It then floors you at that time and leaves you feeling, a sense of panic and paralysis of one’s actions for that moment. I was fortunate that my Consultant explained that anxiety is a very common symptom during the menopause and if you were lucky to have not had this before, you may well experience at this stage of your life.
My equilibrium was really affected and I now can sympathise with people who suffer from anxiety on a daily basis. Seek medical help if you are feeling that you cannot cope and if this symptom is affecting your quality of life, there is help. @westkentmind @mindcharity @menopausesupport @menopause_doctor Or talk to your Gp.
For myself, I found if I counted to ten immediately and took deep breaths it helped to ease the feeling. I gave myself a mantra too, some positive self-talk! “you can do this – it will all be ok, it will go as soon as it came” Give it a try ! it works for me.
Self-care is important and support around you is vital, surround yourself with kind, fun people who have your best interest at heart. Call a friend, go for a walk, find your happy place, exercise, lose yourself in a good book, maybe try a mindfulness class, a new hobby you are keen to try.
Shoutout to the women who fix another woman’s crown without telling the world it was crooked. @thegoodquote
Try to not think it too much, keep yourself busy and distracted. It is just what your body is going through and if you need some help, talk to someone and as they say, a problem shared is a problem halved
Let’s support one another, women to women, as we are all either going through or will be going through this stage of our lives at some point.
@megsmenopause website has a wealth of information detailing the menopause, I have found her site to be a personal lifesaver! I have attached a link to an article for you, for further reading about anxiety with the menopause. https://megsmenopause.com/2018/06/19/dealing-with-anxiety/
@sonyateclai Share with PeriMenoPost your stories or advice, the more we can share the better and support each other, have a great week!!
How many times have you parked the car in a multi-storey car park, told yourself twenty times what level you have parked on, even noted on your phone inside the notes or taken a photo?
Yes, we have all been there! Lost – “where’s the car?” You’re sure it was this level. Your younger version of yourself would have just laughed and navigated your way around until you found your car.
However now, a mild sort of panic and hot flush can appear and strike making the whole episode a complete mess! Brain fog what an annoying symptom of the menopause. Let’s not even start on pin numbers or passwords, that is a whole new chapter! Laugh we may, but it is a frustrating symptom if you have had a terrible nights sleep from hot sweats or insomnia. It can just add to more pressure and anxiety.
BRAIN FOG
Food shopping is another one on the list, hands up who has a handbag full of shopping lists/post-it notes?
When returning home with your shopping, yep, the items on the list are missing? It is like the twilight zone. You were pretty sure that you had remembered everything that you had intended to buy, only to discover you had forgotten the items so they get added onto the list for the next trip. Not only do you have to contend with the mundane chore of food shopping, but a hot flush can also come on when packing the shopping at the checkout. The sign of menopause becomes even clearer when you start to loudly than usual sigh or huff! It suddenly makes an appearance and this is when you know you have met the menopause! We all know the sound.
When it happened to me, it mildly amused me but this symptom is a hard one, when it comes you can be frozen and just completely forget what you said or needed to do or ask. It can be frightening at first as you then think, do I have something seriously wrong with me? and it can be very frustrating at times.
Your new best friend is now the post-it note and pen, lists and to do lists. To make sure you do not forget what you need to do. It can be so frustrating if you are an organised person, it is a bitter pill to swallow at times. I was always so organised and enjoyed doing so.
“If it comes, let it” “If it goes, let it” @vybesource
If you are having symptoms consider visiting your GP to discuss. Personally, I use lists and post-it notes daily to help me stay focused when I need to. A good nights sleep, some exercise and fresh air and a good dose of humour help to get me through. I have also found it best to be just honest with people and tell them that you cannot remember, it just takes the pressure off. When you do remember or focus, it then makes you feel better about yourself. For further information, take a look at The Menopause Room on this link https://themenopauseroom.com/2017/10/26/avoid-menopause-brai n-fog/
Share with PeriMenoPost your stories let us know if you have found what you have found in your handbag or maybe the fridge? The more we can share and support one another the better.
