"The Change", or what's more officially known as Menopause, is a term we've heard tossed around for years. We can look at the entire breadth of women's health in a trifecta of three separate parts.
The first stage is the prepubescent stage, prior to a girl's first menstrual cycle. The second stage begins at the start of a woman's first menstrual cycle and is critical for reproduction. Perimenopause can happen during this stage — think of it as a precursor to the main event, affecting things like fertility. The final stage is menopause, where menstrual cycles become more unpredictable, spread out, or non-existent. The age range of these stages varies greatly based upon genetics, environmental factors, stress, certain medications, and/or any underlying health issues.
Hormone imbalances often wreak havoc on day-to-day functioning, and menopause has equally tough effects on a woman's body and wellbeing. There are some amazing advances in the medical world to help, and if you find yourself in the thick of menopause, you're not alone.
Hot Flashes, Mood Changes, and Hair Loss, Oh My!
Menopause is most commonly portrayed in movies and sitcoms with jokes about hot flashes and mood swings. Other common symptoms can include hair thinning, weight gain, libido changes, night sweats, and trouble sleeping. These are not glamorous — and make many women feel like they are not themselves. Some symptoms are even described as "debilitating", but it doesn't have to be!
Health professionals can prescribe hormone replacement therapy, anti-depressants, GLP-1s, and estrogen creams, which have great success helping women navigate these changes. Unfortunately, many pills and patches are on back order. Wayne Pharmacy and Surgical Supplies has been able to help our customers receive the help they need.
When prescriptions aren't an option, women come into the pharmacy for support. We encourage our patients to supplement with vitamins and minerals, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle. "We are carrying a new line of CBD gummies with melatonin that can promote sleep and relaxation," says Pharmacist In Charge, Tatiana Quiroz. Caltrate Women's Vitamins can support the body through all of its changes, and Vitamin D can greatly improve bodily functions and support bone health. "We have all kinds of over-the-counter options to try, and if you need more support, we can help fill the prescriptions sent over by your doctor," says Quiroz.
Sherry S., a 53-year-old woman, explained that her symptoms began somewhere between 40–45, with hot flashes being her very first sign. She was prescribed an antidepressant and feels well supported by her primary care provider, though she still struggles with sleep deprivation. Our team recommended she try the CBD sleep support gummies we carry in store.
Trust Your Gut
Did you know gut health has a direct correlation to how your body responds to hormonal changes? When estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, your GI system can be greatly impacted. According to a recent UK study, 94% of women reported experiencing digestive health symptoms during menopause. Adding a daily probiotic, in combination with healthy eating, might be a missing piece of the puzzle.
Jennifer S., a 47-year-old woman who started menopause in her early 40s, struggled to feel supported until she addressed her gut health. "Until I found Melaleuca Vitality for Life probiotics, menopause was causing such havoc on my gut. Constant rollercoaster." Jennifer found peace when she began supporting her gut health.
Taking your health into your own hands is the first step, and will greatly empower the woman inside of you to be your BEST SELF. Knowledge is power — get informed today!
Wayne Pharmacy is located at 1055 Hamburg Turnpike, or you can find them online at waynepharmacy.com, and Facebook or Instagram @waynepharmacy.