Navigate menopause with knowledge and support

Gulf News

14-03-2025

Anita S. (name changed), 46, an HR manager in Dubai, found herself irritable at work, waking up drenched in sweat, and struggling to focus on routine tasks. 'At first, I thought it was stress,' she recalls. 'I was working long hours, juggling home and work. But the brain fog, irregular periods, and hot flashes worsened.' When a friend suggested it might be perimenopause, Anita was surprised. 'Menopause was something I associated with women in their 50s, not mid-40s!'
Anita's experience is far from unique. Perimenopause — the transitional phase before menopause — can begin in a woman's early 40s and last for several years. Yet, many women remain unaware of its symptoms and potential health risks.
Dubai-based Dr Usha Kiran, Consultant Gynaecologist at Prime Hospital, explains: 'Perimenopause can be confusing because women may still have periods but experience mood swings, irritability, hot flashes, and fatigue. This gradual decline in ovarian function is nature's way of preparing the body. But without proper awareness and support, it can significantly impact a woman's quality of life.'
For some women, the process can happen even earlier — before the age of 40 — a condition known as Premature Menopause or Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). Dr Nahla Kazim, Director of Fertility Preservation at Bournhall Mediclinic Fertility Centre and founder, Kazim's Fertility Barza, highlights the importance of early diagnosis. 'POI affects about 1 per cent of women globally and can result from genetic conditions, autoimmune disorders, cancer treatments, or unknown causes. Its symptoms mirror natural menopause but come with amplified long-term health risks such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and neurological changes,' she says. Understanding the symptoms
Menopause isn't a sudden event but a gradual transition. Women often mistake early signs for lifestyle-related stress or aging. Common symptoms include:
■ Hot flashes and night sweats
■ Mood swings and irritability
■ Brain fog and memory lapses
■ Joint pain and weight gain
'These symptoms may appear several years before menstruation ceases,' explains Dr Usha. 'It's crucial for women to recognise them and seek medical advice early to manage the changes effectively.'
There are two main reasons to treat menopause: symptom management and long-term health. 'Symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings usually improve within two to five years. However, the long-term effects of menopause, such as bone loss (osteoporosis), increased risk of heart disease, and cognitive decline, require attention. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is highly effective in preventing these issues. While diet and exercise can help, they are not as effective as HRT in maintaining bone, heart, and brain health,' says Dr Usha.
That said, not all women require treatment for menopause. 'If a woman has no symptoms, she may not need intervention beyond advice on maintaining bone and muscle health through exercise, calcium, and vitamin D,' says Dr Usha. Managing premature menopause
For women experiencing premature menopause, the stakes are higher. The loss of reproductive potential and the health risks can be devastating without early intervention. Dr Nahla emphasises the importance of fertility preservation.
'Egg freezing is a game-changer for women diagnosed with conditions that could lead to early ovarian failure. Ideally, women should consult a fertility specialist before age 35 for best outcomes. Advances in vitrification techniques have improved success rates.'
Emerging therapies are offering new hope to women with premature menopause. Dr Nahla sheds light on cutting-edge treatments like in vitro activation (IVA), stem cell therapy, and intra-ovarian platelet-rich plasma (PRP) administration. 'These therapies are still investigational but show promising results.'
As science continues to evolve, the key to managing menopause. 'Women should be empowered to talk about these changes openly,' says Dr Usha. 'No woman should feel like she has to endure these symptoms in silence.'
Both Dr Usha and Dr Nahla emphasise the need for a proactive approach. 'Talk to your doctor, stay informed, and seek support,' urges Dr Nahla. 'Menopause is a natural phase of life, but with the right guidance, women can navigate it with strength and confidence.'
Anita, into her perimenopausal journey, couldn't agree more. 'Once I understood what was happening, everything became easier to manage. I'm learning to listen to my body, seek help when I need it, and take things one day at a time.'
Ayurveda and menopause
Menopause is a significant life transition, yet for many women, it remains a phase fraught with confusion, discomfort, and societal silence. While modern medicine offers solutions like hormone replacement therapy (HRT), traditional systems like Ayurveda provide a holistic, time-tested approach that helps women navigate this change with balance and grace.
'Ayurveda views menopause as a natural evolution — one that can be managed effectively through diet, lifestyle, and herbal interventions,' says Dr Anjali Devi, Ayurveda Functional Medicine Practitioner at Dr Anjali's Ayurvedic Center, Karama, Dubai. She offers some tips:
Ayurveda categorises life into different phases governed by the three doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The menopausal transition, which includes perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, is primarily influenced by Vata and Pitta imbalances. As estrogen levels decline, the body's ability to retain moisture, maintain bone density, and regulate temperature is affected, leading to symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
Ayurveda's approach is centred around restoring this equilibrium. By focusing on Dina Charya (daily routine), Ahara (nutrition), and Rasayana Chikitsa (rejuvenation therapies), Ayurveda helps women maintain vitality. Managing symptoms naturally
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Excess Pitta contributes to heat imbalances. Cooling foods like cucumber, melons, and pomegranate, along with hydrating herbal teas infused with fennel and coriander, can help. Avoiding spicy foods is also crucial.
Mood swings and anxiety: Vata imbalance can lead to mental restlessness. Abhyanga (self-massage) with warm sesame oil calms the nervous system.
Sleep disturbances: A nightly cup of warm milk infused with nutmeg and turmeric acts as a natural sleep aid. Practicing mindfulness and listening to theta wave music can enhance relaxation.
Bone and joint health: With oestrogen depletion, bone density declines. Rasayana therapies, combined with calcium-rich foods like sesame seeds, figs, and leafy greens, support bone health.