Menopause and confusion

Good Monday morning ladies!!!! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. I have been going round and round; again, with information and lack of information for women regarding menopause. I see women on television, some celebrities, some newscasters, but women, nonetheless, who have obviously been through menopause and show no indication of battling weight. I see other women in my daily activities, who seem to either not be concerned about weight, don’t know what questions to ask in terms of getting help losing weight, or who just maybe are too ashamed to ask for help with weight issues.

I have done my own research, spoken to my primary care provider, done more research, continue with modifying my diet, continue to workout at the gym, and yet the results just aren’t what I want them to be. I ask quality questions, and just this morning realized that there are a number of issues I’m battling here. There has been some misinformation, but any information you consider should always go through your medical care provider before you make any changes. I’ve considered, discounted, and reconsidered HRT. Now, this is related to my personal experience only and is not intended as advice or medical directives for any individual. I AM NOT a doctor and will not ever present myself as such.

I’ve learned that there were some concerns with increased risk of breast cancer, deep vein thrombosis (which typically develop in the legs), could also lead to a pulmonary or cardiopulmonary event. Pulmonary relates to the lungs and cardiopulmonary would relate to the heart and lungs. I’ve also learned that the age at which HRT (hormone replacement therapy) begins, greatly impacts risks. As with any major life changing decision, you have to do your own research, speak with your own trusted medical professionals and choose what you personally feel is most beneficial to you. I am still on the fence.

One concern I have asked about is weight issues. I eat a very healthy diet, yet my weight doesn’t seem to react one way or the other. I work out at least 4 times a week, sometimes, 5 and 6 days a week. I mix my workouts with cardio and weight training. It would appear there is little else I can change, except my sweet tooth. I do not overindulge in candy or sweets, but I do add sugary creamer to my coffee. I know this is not good, but I have allowed myself to be fooled into the thought process that it’s only one or two cups a day. And I don’t have many days where I decide we need to have two pots of coffee as those first cups just weren’t enough. I also justify, as humans often do, that we need some vice.

One thing is certain regarding different time periods of our lives. We need to find a health care provider we trust and we know is knowledgeable about our concerns. Sometimes, we need a few different types of care providers to help us through. We also need to ensure when we do our research, we take all emotion out of the equation. Emotion blinds us to making good, solid choices. There are plenty of things to get emotional over in life, but to make solid decisions, you need to rely on facts; just as scientists do.

Remember, you are not alone, you are probably not the first, and you can and will come through this. Menopause is not taboo, it is not shameful, it is a natural part of aging and something we must take control of, as with any health related issue we face in our lives. We must gather the facts, we must weigh the pros and the cons, we must examine many areas of our health practices, and then we must take some form of action. Even no decision is a form of action. I hope you have a wonderful day, that you are safe and healthy, and that you find this information helpful.