Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles for those who menstruate, symbolized by no more periods and the inability of a woman's body to get pregnant. Simply put, aging causes menopause after the average age of around 52 years and the menopausal transition can last up to several years (anywhere from 2-8 years!).

Menopause causes a significant decrease in the body's production of estrogen and progesterone (two hormones produced by the ovaries). Such hormone fluctuation may result in symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats insomnia joint and muscle aches, sexual intercourse discomfort, mood swings and irritability, memory loss, and/or difficulty concentrating. Also, genetics also have a role in influencing symptoms. Besides, race and ethnicity culture lifestyle, and environment are external factors that may also impact symptoms. And aging besides, menopause can also occur due to the surgical removal of both ovaries.

One will reach menopause after a full year of no menstrual bleeding including spotting. Changes taking place during this time are completely natural and coupled with the cessation of menstruation. These changes may include a loss of bone density, a decline in heart health, changes in body shape and composition, and a reduction in physical function.

Menopause and Sexual Health 

Often, the physical change that leads to a less enjoyable and even painful sexual experience for the menopausal woman is a very common one. This pain during intercourse is a symptom of a condition known as dyspareunia. It can be caused by a number of symptoms including constriction of the vaginal opening soreness itching, and dryness - the latter is medically termed vaginal atrophy. Remedies range from doctor-prescribed hormones and treatments to over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants. Also, menopause is the time to turn to a diet of healthful foods, engage in regular physical activity, and make sure you get plenty of calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones strong.

When a woman sees all the changes her body is undergoing during menopause, the thought of a scary life change hanging over her day-to-day existence can be the first reaction. On the contrary, many also share the experience of menopause as a liberation- freedom from the pain of periods, the knowledge of one self that has enabled clear communication of needs and desires, and low anxiety with sexual intercourse as there s no longer a fear of pregnancy. It is these transitional phases in life that can offer older adults the chance to explore and create new meanings for sexuality and intimacy.

Q&A:  A Personal Experience with Menopause

Allow me to introduce Luna Rune, an insightful and radiant personality, who guides us on an enthralling journey to understand the subject more profoundly. Our life is a series of phases and changes, much like the moon changing its phases. Here, a 62-year-old lady reveals her intimate story of menopause to offer a comforting message that you have companions in your struggle yet emphasizing the uniqueness of every individual's path.

Honey: So, what kind of emotions came up when your body reached the stage of menopause?

Luna Rune: For me, menopause began quite slowly. I turned 55 when I had my last menstruation - there was a little bleeding at the time of my son's wedding, that's why the memory is still very clear to me.

Before menopause, my periods were terrible (emotionally and physically). I had such heavy bleeding that quite often my doctor put me on medications. I even had a surgical intervention called endometrial ablation (a procedure that removes or destroys the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop heavy menstrual bleeding). Besides that, during ovulation, I was very emotional and bloated. So, in a way, I was actually anticipating menopause.

I still have mood swings even though I can't pin down any particular reasons my emotional state can quickly change, and sometimes I give in to the urge to cry (at least, after a while, I become roughly the size of a rolled-up ball). There is a certain vulnerability that comes with aging, though my body is getting older, and I am not very fond of that. Although the hot flashes don't come very often, when they do, I am able to deal with them. Also, it seems to me that now it is not only difficult to put on extra pounds, but also to lose them quite quickly.

While some women lament the loss of fertility and youth, I believe that menopause is a turning point. Being 62 years old and feeling like a young woman, I am embracing every opportunity to delight in life.

Honey: To what extent did menopause change your sex life?

LR: Menopause has profoundly impacted my sexual activity. Before that period of my life, I was quite a sexual person and regularly had sex. Unfortunately, my vaginal walls have gotten so thin and fragile that penetration is really painful for me. Even if we use lubricant during intercourse, it hurts and small tears happen that sometimes lead to bleeding.

Physical pain is a major stumbling block in our relationship. We do have sex still but not even close to how often we used to. I dread it because of the unbearable pain and I don't even know how to calm myself when I am aware of Really there will be pain.

My physician has told me that there are drugs to alleviate the symptoms but I am not in favor of taking the pills. I enjoy and find it very beneficial doing pelvic floor exercises like Kegels. Being an energy healer, I've combined this method with meditation and deep breathing exercises to achieve relaxation.

Honey: What really got you through all this change?

LR: My partner and I are a bit experimental. For example, we tried out Bliss (Intimate Earth Bliss Lubricant) that contains cloves. The cloves induce a mild numbing sensation naturally but for me, it's still not enough to completely numb the pain.

Though, the lubrication is very helpful In particular since hormonal changes cause dryness. Becoming more relaxed has helped the pain decrease in intensity and I am even able to handle it at times. I know there will be pain so it is a natural instinct that our brain will respond with a panic and resistance to the whole idea of anything even getting near the area.

Honey: What would you say to someone who is experiencing menopause in their life right now?

LR: Menopause is a natural transition in one's life. We should not be afraid of it - in fact, we should embrace it and continue to enjoy our lives. I am a big supporter of holistic wellness - taking care of our emotional physical mental and spiritual selves. I mainly try to lead a healthy lifestyle: keep active, eat well. Also, manage your stress and drink lots of water! There are a lot of resources to help manage symptoms learn about menopause! Maintain a diary record what is effective and what isn't for you. Even if we share the same parts, we all function differently. Pay attention to your body, it is the best judge of what you need.