The ups and downs of menopause
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Just when it seems the menopausal roller coaster is beginning to slow down, many women are left felling low, flat and frazzled due to turbulent hormonal fluctuations.
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- The ups and downs of menopause
Variable hormone levels around the time of menopause are thought to cause many symptoms including mood changes. Although the mechanism is still unclear, it may be the drop in oestrogen, which can act on neurotransmitters in the brain, that leads to sadness and anxiety. Other mood symptoms include irritability, lack of motivation and poor memory.
Along with biological changes, menopause can be a time of philosophical introspection, which can be emotionally overwhelming for many women and result in increased stress levels. There are many other changes that occur during menopause that may contribute to a low mood including:
- Poor sleep, usually due to night sweats
- Vaginal dryness, or general discomfort in the genitourinary system
- Low libido, and painful sex
- Children leaving home or “empty nest syndrome”
- Caring for elderly or sick parents
- Body image.
- Weight gain
Natural helpers
St John’s wort is a herb that produces yellow flowers and was traditionally gathered when celebrating the feast of St John, hence it’s name. The word ‘wort’ means herb in the old English language. In present times, St John’s wort has been studied for its positive effect on neurotransmitters in the brain. It contains natural active constituents such as hypericin, that are believed to have positive effects on mood. During menopause, St John’s wort may provide support when suffering from irritability, low mood and sadness.
Women who are predominately suffering from irritability and anxiety may find nervous system relaxing herbs such as passion flower, lemon balm and lavender work well. These herbs may add to a sense of calmness and help relax the nervous system. Nervous system relaxing herbs coupled with B vitamins on a day-to-day basis may help get you through menopausal mayhem.
For women who feel as though they are exhausted or who are burning the candle from both ends, tonic herbs, otherwise known as adaptogens, can be useful. Tonic herbs help the body to adapt during times of emotional and physical stress, which can be especially apparent in menopause when some women find it difficult to sleep. Tonic herbs include ginseng, withania (winter cherry) and liquorice.
References available upon request
Did you know that women who exercise regularly around the time of menopause report being in a better mood?
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