By Jen Schroer RN, BSN, BC-NC
Picture a woman you love—perhaps your wife, mother, daughter, or even yourself. See her in a state of health, happiness, and peace: smiling, engaged in her favorite activities, and full of vitality.
Now imagine her waking up one day with pain in her shoulder, despite no apparent injury, and feeling unable to enjoy the things she loves. She is unhappy, moody, stressed, and disconnected. Envision her avoiding social gatherings due to concerns about weight gain or extreme fatigue, feeling lost and misunderstood.
Lastly, consider the impact of telling her that it doesn’t have to be this way—that there is a solution, and she is not alone. Imagine the relief and excitement on her face.
Menopause can span over a third of a woman’s life, and with perimenopause potentially starting up to a decade earlier, that could mean 30+ years of discomfort if not properly managed. These natural transitions bring significant physical, emotional, and mental changes. However, suffering through them is not inevitable.
Many women do not realize that their symptoms are linked to hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause; but they know they no longer feel like themselves. Menopause involves more than just hot flashes and weight gain—there are over 75 symptoms across various specialties, making it challenging to pinpoint exact issues. The Greene Climacteric Scale can be a helpful tool to identify whether symptoms are related to these phases.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms with unclear causes, start tracking these symptoms and consult a healthcare provider. Ask whether they could be related to hormonal changes related to menopause. If the current provider does not offer adequate support, seek a second opinion—resources like the Menopause Society’s “Menopause Practitioner Search” can assist.
A holistic approach to managing menopause and perimenopause can offer relief. This includes lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, stress management techniques, and prioritizing sleep. These adjustments not only help alleviate symptoms but also promote long-term health.
With the right approach, many of the challenges of menopause can be managed or alleviated. Seek guidance, openly discuss symptoms, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. If you or someone you care about needs support, I would be honored to assist in reclaiming your energy, peace, health, and wellness.
To schedule a consultation, visit www.ClarityWellnessCoach.com or email jmschroer@inursecoach.com