creating a supportive network- menopause | fushi

Menopause, a natural transition experienced by countless women worldwide, often unfolds amidst a veil of silence and misunderstanding.

At Fushi, we are deeply committed to reshaping the narrative surrounding this significant life phase. Recognising the enduring stigma and misconceptions that have shadowed menopause for far too long, our mission is rooted in compassion and empowerment.

We understand the challenges and uncertainties that accompany this journey. It's a time of profound change, both physically and emotionally. Yet, in the midst of these shifts, there is an opportunity for growth and transformation.

With tenderness and empathy, we seek to foster open dialogue and create a safe space where women can share their experiences without fear of judgment. We believe that by shining a light on menopause with warmth and understanding, we can dissolve the stigma and embrace it as a natural and beautiful aspect of life.

At the heart of our approach lies the belief in the power of connection. Through heartfelt conversations and mutual support, we can navigate the complexities of menopause together. Whether seeking guidance from loved ones or finding solace in shared experiences, know that you are not alone on this journey.

Although we may not have all the answers, we firmly believe that the conversation surrounding women's health is crucial. It's about creating a supportive community where we can openly discuss our experiences, share knowledge, and offer compassion to one another.

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, marking the end of her reproductive years. It doesn’t happen overnight, but rather in stages that encompass several years of physiological and hormonal changes. These stages are peri-menopause , meno-pause , and post-menopause . Understanding each stage can help women better manage the symptoms and embrace this transition with awareness.

Perimenopause: The Transition Period - Perimenopause, often referred to as the 'menopausal transition', typically begins in a woman's life during her 40s, but can start as early as 30s. It is the period leading up to menopause when hormone levels, especially estrogen begin to fluctuate. This transition period can last for , for anywhere between months to several years, and it ends when a woman has gone 12 months without her period.

Common signs and symptoms of perimenopause can include:

• Irregular periods
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood swings
• Trouble sleeping

Although ovulation is less predictable during perimenopause, pregnancy is still possible. Woman may consider using contraception until they are officially in menopause.

Menopause - End of ovarian function - Menopause itself is officially defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Once this one-year mark is reached, she is considered to be in menopause, so menopause itself is essentially a milestone rather than a process. It typically occurs around the age of 50, though this can vary depending on genetic, lifestyle, and health factors. Menopause marks the end of ovarian function and the body’s natural production of reproductive hormones, like estrogen and progesterone.

Postmenopause: Life After Menopause - Postmenopause is the stage that follows menopause and lasts for the remainder of a woman’s life. The hormonal fluctuations of perimenopause settle, but low estrogen levels persist. While symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings tend to diminish over time, postmenopausal women are at an increased risk for certain conditions due to the long-term decrease in estrogen, including:

• Osteoporosis : A condition where bones become weak and brittle.
• Cardiovascular disease : Reduced estrogen levels can impact heart health, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Urinary incontinence : A weakening of the pelvic floor muscles may cause bladder control issues.

However, with the right lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and possibly hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if recommended by a healthcare provider, women can manage these risks effectively and continue to lead vibrant, healthy lives.

The good news? There are plenty of ways to manage menopause symptoms naturally and effectively.

• Nourish Your Body: Stick to a diet rich in whole foods, especially those packed with calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Foods with phytoestrogens, like soy, can also help.
• Stay Active: Gentle exercise like yoga or walking does wonders for your mood, weight, and overall wellness.
• Sleep Well: Focus on a calming evening routine to improve sleep. A warm bath or a cup of herbal tea can make all the difference.
• Support Your Emotional Well-Being: Take time for yourself. Whether it’s meditation, journaling, or simply some deep breaths, these small moments can help you handle mood swings and stress.
• Talk It Out: Chat with friends or loved ones about what you’re going through. Sometimes, a good laugh or venting session is the best medicine.
• Explore Treatment Options: If your symptoms feel overwhelming, it’s okay to seek help. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) might be an option, or you can explore more natural remedies, like herbal supplements or soothing creams. Always consult with your healthcare provider to find what’s best for you.

• Dong Quai: Often referred to as the "female ginseng," dong quai is a traditional Chinese herb that has been used for centuries to support women's health. It is believed to balance hormones and improve blood circulation, which can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and vaginal dryness.
• Evening Primrose Oil:  Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), evening primrose oil is often used to reduce inflammation and improve skin health. For menopausal women, it may also provide relief from hot flashes and breast tenderness. Some studies suggest it can help stabilise mood swings.
• Ashwagandha:  As an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. During menopause, ashwagandha may improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and boost overall energy levels. It also helps regulate cortisol, a stress hormone that can become imbalanced during this stage of life.

Supporting women through menopause requires understanding, patience, and empathy. It’s important to create a space where women feel comfortable discussing their experiences without judgment. Simply being there to listen can make a big difference, as menopause can bring physical and emotional challenges that are often misunderstood. Encouraging self-care, whether it’s through relaxation techniques, exercise, or seeking professional advice, can help women manage their symptoms more effectively. In the workplace, offering flexibility and understanding can ease the stress of balancing symptoms with daily responsibilities. Ultimately, showing compassion and providing support can empower women to navigate this natural life transition with confidence.

Breaking the stigma around menopause is about normalising conversations and shifting the narrative from silence and shame to openness and empowerment. For too long, menopause has been treated as a taboo subject, something women should quietly endure. But it’s a natural phase of life, not a condition to be hidden. By talking openly about the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause, we can dismantle the outdated stereotypes and misinformation that often surround it. When women feel empowered to share their experiences without fear of judgment, we create a culture of understanding and support, making menopause a celebrated and accepted part of life’s journey.

DISCLAIMER

Always consult with a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner for personalised advice. This guide serves as an advisory resource, providing general recommendations under the assumption of typical menstrual cycles and absence of specific health or hormone-related conditions. If you are on any medication, make sure to consult with a healthcare practitioner.