Discover all our Healthy Menopause holidays

What is Menopause

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive period. It is defined as the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, but can occur earlier or later. During menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, leading to a range of physical and emotional changes. Symptoms of menopause can include hot flashes, night sweats, gain weight, mood swings and difficulty sleeping. 

Menopause is a normal and natural transition in a woman's life, but it can have a significant impact on her physical and emotional health. It's important for women to talk to their healthcare provider about managing symptoms and maintaining overall health during and after menopause.

What is a healthy menopause

While menopause is a natural part of aging, it can also come with a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can impact a woman's quality of life. A healthy menopause refers to a period of transition that is characterized by minimal symptoms and complications. This can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol intake, as well as medical interventions, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other medications to manage specific symptoms. 

A healthy menopause also involves regular medical check-ups and screenings to monitor for any potential health concerns, such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular disease, which can become more common after menopause. It is important for to check with a hormone professional or other healthcare provider to create a plan for managing your menopause and how to maintain your overall health and well-being. 

What to expect from a healthy menopause in a Health Resort

Some Health resorts and wellness centers have created specific programs around menopausal symptoms to women experiencing those complains. If it is only natural elements, it may be a holistic approach. We listed some elements that may be offered in a program:

• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to promote balance and stimulate healing. It has been shown to be effective in reducing hot flashes, night sweats, and other menopausal symptoms. 
  
• Herbal remedies: Certain herbs such as black cohosh, dong quai and red clover have been traditionally used to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Health resorts may offer herbal teas, supplements, or topical creams containing these herbs.
  
• Mind-body therapies: Practices such as yoga, tai chi, mindfulness and meditation can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
  
• Massage therapy: Therapeutic massage can help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, which may alleviate symptoms such as headaches and muscle pain.
  
• Healthy food: Health resorts offer nutrition counseling to help women manage menopausal symptoms through dietary changes, such as increasing intake of foods rich in phytoestrogens (plant-based compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen).
  

It's important to note that natural remedies may not be appropriate or effective for every woman. It's always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider.

Tips for a smooth healthy menopause

How to maintain your happiness, health and well-being during the transition of menopause. We give you some tips from our experts in our Health Resorts:  

• Stay physically active: Regular exercise can help to reduce symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia. It also helps to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of heart disease. 
  
• Healthy food: A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean protein can help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of medical issues such as heart disease, digestion or diabetes.  
  
• Manage stress: Menopause can be a stressful time, and chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms. Try to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. 
  
• Get enough sleep: Insomnia and other sleep disturbances are common during menopause. Establish a regular sleep routine, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and create a cool and dark sleeping environment. 
  
• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy (HT) can help to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and emotional wellbeing. However, HT is not appropriate for all women and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
  
• Stay up-to-date with health screenings: Menopause is a time when the risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis, heart issues or breast cancer increases. It's important to schedule regular health screenings to detect and treat any issues early on.
  
• Stay social: Maintaining social connections can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Consider joining a support group with other women to stay connected.