Menopause

I'm sure you remember when you were young and watched your mother go through menopause. At the time, you may have not realized what was happening because menopause or "the change of life" wasn't discussed back then. On the other hand, perhaps, your mother had an easy time with menopause so you weren't aware of any changes. Either way, you are now experiencing menopause and would like to discuss it with your family.

There is so much more information available than there was in your mother's day. Your public library as well as the internet has an endless source of valuable information. The literature will vary from very simple to understand to more complex medical information. Whatever kind you are looking for, it is all at your disposal. Don't be afraid to get whatever you can.

Before you can get your family to listen and understand, it is imperative that you fully understand what is happening to you. So many women today still do not like to think about menopause much less discuss it. Being able to fully understand and accept the menopause is the first step in being able to better cope and make your family understand.

If you're lucky, you have family members that are "talkers" and able to communicate freely about delicate subjects. Many of the young adults today have the attitude, "that's more than I need to hear". I hope that your family will not fall into that category. If they do, it may be beneficial to both of you if you to get the literature and ask them to read it.

Discuss menopause openly with your husband/partner and/or children. Allow and encourage them to ask any questions they may have. When I started menopause, it was thrown on me rather sudden because of a hysterectomy. My husband and daughters were at the hospital with me when my doctor explained it all to me. This was extremely helpful for all of us. I was able to ask my doctor questions that referred to my family, but that they were afraid to ask themselves. In return, my doctor was insightful enough to realize their fear or shyness so she asked them questions.

Not everyone will be that lucky and have that opportunity. Explain to them that menopause is a natural part of life and nothing to be afraid or ashamed of. Openly discuss your options regarding hormone replacement therapy or natural replacements and get their opinion. The more you try to make them a part of it, the better their response and attitude will be regarding any discomforts you may experience. It is important that they realize they are a part of it because of their concern for you.

They may not always understand the moodiness and depression. They may wish to speak with someone about this to help them understand that it's "nothing personal" against them. Most important is to make them realize that menopause and its symptoms are not permanent. It is something that will pass and you will be back to the way you were prior to menopause, if not better.