- Menopause causes a drop in estrogen level, which leads to bone depletion
- It also makes women more vulnerable to cardiovascular diseases
In a bid to educate women about the various changes their bodies undergo during menopause, Paras Bliss Hospital, Panchkula, today organized a camp on the subject. The session focused on addressing the various concerns, physical, emotional, and mental, faced by women in their 40s and 50s.
Menopause represents the end of a woman’s reproductive life, and can be a stressful period. A fall in the protective hormone, estrogen, makes a woman vulnerable to cardiovascular diseases, as well as bone and skin-related problems.
The camp had Dr Nirja Chawla, Director, Obstetrics-Gynecology, Infertility, IVF, Laparoscopic Surgery, Allied Services and Dr Heena Chawla, Consultant Laparoscopic Gynecologist, Paras Bliss Hospital, addressing the gathering of 50 women, who came to attend the session.
“Menopause brings along numerous hormonal changes in the body. It affects both physical and mental health, and every woman has her own experience with it, both in terms of age and emotions. Some women feel a sense of relief, especially if it comes at a time when it is due—between 50 and 55. However, when it comes early, as we are increasingly seeing these days, sometimes as early as 30, women suffer mentally and emotionally too. Issues such as vaginal dryness, urinary problems, sleep disturbances, and mood and behavioral changes are common during the stage. Women may also see a rise in body weight, which may be distressing. Simple practices, such as deep breathing and exercise help alleviate the stress and anxiety at this time,†said Dr Nirja Chawla.
The seven-hour long clinic, which started at 10 a.m., had special sessions on joint care and mobilization exercises. Women were educated about the onset of rapid bone mineral depletion, osteoporosis, and ways to counter this, after menopause.
“Osteoporosis is common with post-menopausal women, as low levels of estrogen lead to low bone density, making the bone brittle, hence fragile. Women with postmenopausal osteoporosis are susceptible to fractures of their hips, wrists, and spine. Therefore, joint mobility exercises help in preventing the condition. These exercises could include strength-training and the building of certain muscles. Practising these exercises regularly ensures flexibility and mobility. It also relaxes the joints by reducing soreness,†said Dr Heena Chawla.
