FEMALE ATHLETE BLOG SERIES: Post #2
Last week we talked about the menstrual cycle, implications for training and effects on daily life both the desirable and not so desirable. However, the take away message being to understand your cycle, communicate with your coach and family so you can get the best out of yourself and manage the highs and lows.

Next up, the hormones and menopause…

What is Menopause?
Menopause is a time in a woman’s lifespan, usually between the age of 45-55, in which there are significant hormonal changes.  The main culprit being oestrogen. Oestrogen is one of the most important hormones for females and during menopause oestrogen levels drop significantly and for a long period of time.  Menopause is a time period with no exact start or end point however, it is thought to last around 7 years and this is different for everyone.  Usually the start of menopause is characterised by the absence of a regular period for 12 months alongside menopausal symptoms which we will discuss below.
How might it affect me?
For some women, symptoms are very mild and even unnoticeable.  However majority of women will experience symptoms of menopause during the pre and post menopausal periods.  The drop in oestrogen levels can cause the absence of a regular period, hot flushes, sleep disruption, mood changes and decreased arousal levels.  Alongside this, weight gain, joint aches and pains, low mood and depression symptoms are common which can make exercise seem that little bit harder.
How can we treat menopause?
Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s lifespan, treating the symptoms of menopause is best done in consultation and discussion with your doctor and family.  Whilst this period of life is unavoidable, changing the discussion from ‘surviving menopause’ to ‘thriving through menopause’ might just help to reduce the burden of the symptoms menopause brings with it. Educating yourself and your loved ones around you, communicating with a doctor or coach, can help to open the discussion and set yourself up for success during this period.

Words: Ryley Pasquali, with input from Chloe Conroy (Women’s Health Physiotherapist)