We've joined forces with Mickie Griffith Autry
Lifestyle Modifications and Menopause
Mickie Griffith-Autry, PhD, NP-C
When a woman with menopausal symptoms presents to her health care provider she may be given medication, however lifestyle modifications are infrequently addressed. The current guidelines are endorsed by evidence-based literature and should be considered part of the treatment plan for menopausal symptoms.
Many women who are entering or currently in menopause exhibit a decrease in metabolism, increase in tobacco use, and limited time for exercise and diet schedules. Therefore it is important to discuss smoking cessation, weight reduction, and ways to eliminate daily life stress.
It is well established that smoking is the leading cause of a variety of illnesses. Lung cancer, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke are just some of the major consequences of smoking. While smoking cessation is difficult helpful strategies are available. Ongoing counseling, social support, pharmacotherapy, and health care provider have proven to be beneficial in assisting women to stop smoking.
Weight reduction is a major factor in disease prevention and health maintenance. During menopause, weight gain is likely to occur. Exercise can have a positive impact on menopause and overall health. While a daily exercise routine is important, some daily activities that can be incorporated have been proven beneficial. This activities include but are not limited to using stairs instead of elevators, walk or bike to your destination, park far away from building and walk, exercise with others, and use a stationary bicycle while watching TV.
Many menopausal women experience depression, mood changes, irritability, and decreased libido. Stress reduction strategies to consider include relaxation and anger management techniques, meditation skills, and behavioral and cognitive therapies. Biofeedback, massage therapy and pet therapy are reported to alleviate some of the stressors that are encountered during menopause.
Lifestyle modifications that address diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and stress reduction aid in the overall treatment of menopausal symptoms. Research supports the importance of lifestyle modification, in addition to pharmacotherapy for the relief of menopausal symptoms.
December: Physiology of the menstrual cycle
January: Signs and symptoms of menopause
February: Pharmaceutical treatments for menopausal symptoms
March: Lifestyle modifications and menopause
April: Osteoporosis and menopause
May: Complementary and alternative therapy for menopausal symptoms
June: Breast Health
July: Cardiovascular health and menopause
August: Sexuality and menopause
September: Nurtrition and menopause
October: Weight management and activity during menopause
November: Vaginal health and menopause
Ms. Autry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Jacksonville State University, her Masters of Science degree in nursing from the University of Alabama Huntsville, and her PhD from Walden University. Her research dissertation was entitled Pelvic muscle strengthening: Impact on sexual functioning in the menopausal woman. Ms. Autry is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nursing Credentialing Center, and the Certification Board for Urological Nurses and Associates. She has completed multiple postgraduate preceptor programs in female sexual medicine, pelvic pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Ms. Autry is an active member of the Society of Urological Nurse Associates, North American Menopause Society, American Urological Society, and the International Pelvic Pain Society and founder of two women's health support groups. She is a national and local speaker for multiple pharmaceutical and medical companies, has participated in clinical trial studies, and has published articles in the Society of Urological Nurse Associate and North American Menopause Society journals.
Warning: Weight loss attempts are serious life changes that require professional medical attention before starting and constant monitoring during the program. The information provided on this site, is not to be considered as medical advice, nor a substitute for compentent medical assistance during weight loss efforts. The information provided is with the implied understanding that changes in your lifestyle should be attempted only as directed by your physician and/or health-care-professional.
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