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    Birth control during menopause

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    When women reach midlife, their need for contraception can change. Fortunately, there are many options, including hormonal contraceptives. These pills offer a number of benefits, but it's important to know how they work and what you can expect. Find out about the different types of contraception available to you at midlife, the benefits of hormonal contraception, what to look out for and when to see your doctor.
    The older you get, the lower your chances of getting pregnant without medical help. At the age of 45, the chances of getting pregnant are even very low. Nevertheless, it is important to use a safe and effective method of contraception, especially if you don't want to have children or want to avoid an unplanned pregnancy. Experts recommend that you use contraception until you have officially reached the menopause, i.e. 12 months without a period. However, perimenopausal symptoms can occur as early as your mid-30s or 40s, so it's still possible to get pregnant. As your fertility declines and your menstrual cycle fluctuates, natural family planning becomes a less reliable method of contraception. It is important that you find out about other contraceptive options to protect yourself and your future plans.

    Contraceptive options in midlife

    Discover a range of effective contraceptive methods for midlife. From permanent solutions to hormone-based and hormone-free options, you can choose what works best for you. Hormonal contraceptive methods are generally safe, but it's important to consider any pre-existing conditions that could affect your health. The good news is that there are also hormone-free options that offer you peace of mind and flexibility. It's up to you to make the decision that works best for you and your lifestyle.

    You have the choice between various options:

    Oral hormonal contraceptives are a convenient and reliable method of preventing unwanted pregnancy. There are two types: combined oestrogen-progestogen pills and progestogen-only pills, both of which are taken orally. These pills work in different ways: They stop or reduce ovulation, thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and thin the lining of the uterus to reduce the chance of pregnancy. It is important that you speak to your doctor before taking the combined contraceptive pill, especially if you have high blood pressure or diabetes, as it may not be suitable for you. However, if you can't take oestrogen because you're breastfeeding or have a history of blood clots or strokes, the progestogen-only pill, also known as the 'mini pill', is a good option. Your doctor can help you find the right pill for you.

    Non-oral hormonal contraceptives. If you are looking for an alternative to oral hormonal contraception, there are other convenient options. You can choose between a vaginal ring, a skin patch or an injection, all of which use hormones to prevent pregnancy. Each of these options has its own method of application, so it's important that you discuss them with your doctor before deciding on one. Your doctor can help you decide which method is best for you based on your individual needs and preferences. These options give you the flexibility to choose the method that works best for you and give you peace of mind and reliable protection against an unwanted pregnancy.

    Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a safe and effective long-term solution for preventing pregnancy. During a quick and simple procedure, your doctor inserts a T-shaped plastic device through your vagina and inserts it into your uterus. IUDs can last for three to six years, providing you with reliable protection against an unwanted pregnancy. You can choose between two types of IUDs: hormonal IUDs, which are coated with a progestin, or non-hormonal IUDs, which are usually coated with copper. A progestogen-coated IUD can also help with heavy or irregular bleeding, which is common during the perimenopause. With this long-term, low-maintenance contraceptive method, you can concentrate fully on your life without worrying about pregnancy.

    Barrier methods offer a range of non-hormonal contraceptive options to choose from. These include male and female condoms, spermicides, diaphragms with spermicides, cervical caps and spermicidal sponges. Although these methods are slightly less effective than hormonal options, they do have some advantages. For example, condoms not only prevent pregnancy, but also protect against sexually transmitted infections. In addition, some of these methods, such as the cervical cap and spermicide sponge, are reusable and offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to other options. Talk to your doctor about which barrier method is right for you, depending on your individual needs and preferences. With these options, you can enjoy safe, worry-free intimacy while maintaining control over your reproductive health.

    Sterilization is a permanent and highly effective form of contraception. A common option for women is tubal ligation, where the fallopian tubes are tied, cut or blocked. Alternatively, tubal implants can be considered, where two metal springs are inserted into each fallopian tube to prevent the monthly release of eggs. Men may opt for a vasectomy, an operation that prevents sperm from being ejaculated. These procedures offer a long-term contraceptive solution that gives you peace of mind and complete control over your reproductive health. Talk to your doctor about whether sterilization is the right option for you, depending on your individual needs and preferences. With these options, you can confidently choose the contraceptive method that works best for you and enjoy a happy, fulfilling life.

    The morning after pill is an effective method of preventing pregnancy when used correctly. These oral pills are available over the counter and give you easy access to a backup method if your regular contraceptive method fails or you haven't used any contraceptives. It is important that you take the pill within 72 hours of intercourse for it to be effective. The morning-after pill stops ovulation or prevents an egg from being fertilized. They do not lead to a termination of pregnancy or damage an existing pregnancy. With this option, you can confidently deal with unexpected situations and take control of your reproductive health. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to find out more about emergency contraception and whether it is suitable for you.

    Advantages of hormonal contraceptives

    The hormonal contraceptive pill is a versatile option that can offer a range of benefits beyond contraception. By taking these pills orally, you can benefit from several advantages, such as more regular menstrual cycles and less bleeding during your period. Hormonal contraceptives can also reduce the risk of iron deficiency and anemia and reduce pain in the uterus during your period. They can also reduce hot flashes, improve bone strength and even reduce acne and unwanted hair growth, both of which can occur during menopause. These pills can also reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. It's worth noting that hormone pills can also reduce your risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer. By taking advantage of the many benefits of hormonal contraception, you can feel more confident and take control of your health. If you want to find out more about hormonal contraception, talk to your doctor about whether it's right for you.

    What you need to know about hormonal contraception

    Hormonal contraception is a safe and effective option for many women, but it's important that you know a few things before you start. If you're considering taking estrogen-containing pills, be sure to talk to your doctor first. Women who smoke or have a history of oestrogen-related cancer should not use them. Although hormonal contraceptives can regulate your periods and reduce heavy bleeding, they can sometimes mask or hide the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. You should also bear in mind that combined hormone pills can cause withdrawal bleeding, which can make it difficult to determine whether you are approaching or already in menopause. However, you can rest assured that hormonal contraception is a safe and effective way to protect your reproductive health.

    When you should see a doctor

    Regular visits to your doctor are important to maintain your reproductive health. If you experience side effects from your contraceptive method, it's always best to talk to your doctor. They can help you find other options that work better for you. Remember that menopause can occur at a different age for every woman. You don't need to worry if you're not in menopause yet, even if you're already in your forties or fifties. If you think you're approaching the menopause, or if you haven't had your period for several months in a row, you should speak to your doctor before deciding to stop taking the pill. Your doctor can tell you whether you are approaching menopause or not.
     

    Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - What do I need to know?

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    Menopause can be a difficult time for many women, with symptoms such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness, bone loss and low oestrogen levels affecting daily life. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one treatment option to alleviate these symptoms. However, hormone replacement therapy is highly controversial, as some women find it helpful, while for others it comes with risks. Here's what you need to know about hormone replacement therapy to help you decide if it's right for you.

    What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

    Hormone replacement therapy replaces the hormones that your body no longer produces during menopause. It can be used to treat a range of symptoms such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness and bone loss. The type of hormone therapy, the dose and the risks depend on individual needs and preferences.

    There are different types of hormone replacement therapy:

    • Oestrogen tablets
    • Oestrogen plaster to stick to the skin
    • Oestrogen cream that is inserted into the vagina or applied locally in the vagina

    Women with a uterus receive a combination therapy. Women who have not had their uterus removed are also given progestogens, a type of synthetic progesterone. This helps to reduce the risk of uterine cancer.

    HRT treatments are generally divided into two categories:

    1. Systemic hormone therapy: Systemic hormone therapy is usually administered in the form of tablets, patches or creams. They contain higher doses of oestrogens, which are absorbed by the body and treat common menopausal symptoms.
    2. Low-dose vaginal products: Low-dose vaginal products are used to treat vaginal and urinary complaints during menopause. They are usually available in the form of creams, tablets or rings and only contain the minimum amount of oestrogen required.

    What are the benefits and risks involved?

    The benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy have been extensively studied and discussed. Short-term treatment can alleviate menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis and reduce the risk of bowel cancer. Hormone replacement therapy can be useful if:

    • you have moderate to severe hot flushes or other menopausal symptoms.
    • you have had your ovaries removed.
    • you were diagnosed with an "early menopause" before the age of 40.
    • you cannot treat your osteoporosis in any other way.

    However, there are some risks associated with hormone replacement therapy that you should be aware of. These include:

    • Increased risk of uterine cancer in women who only take oestrogen (no progestogen).
    • Increased risk of breast cancer with long-term hormone therapy.
    • Increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, blood clots and stroke.

    Women who smoke have a higher risk of complications associated with hormone replacement therapy. Women who start hormone replacement therapy when they are over 60 are also at risk, as are women who have not had menopausal symptoms for 10 or more years. They too can benefit from hormone replacement therapy, but the risks usually outweigh the benefits.

    There are various health conditions that can increase the risk of complications with hormone therapy. Talk to your doctor about whether you have any hereditary health risks. These include

    • Earlier heart attack or stroke
    • Risk of blood clots and vascular disease
    • Breast cancer
    • Disease of the gallbladder
    • Active liver disease
    • Cervical cancer

    How can I reduce the risk?

    There is no "one-size-fits-all" plan for hormone therapy. Your hormone therapy will be tailored to you, your health and your lifestyle. Talk to your doctor about the following topics if you are considering hormone therapy:

    • Find out which form of hormone therapy (pill, patch, cream, etc.) is best for you.
    • Take the lowest dose of hormone replacement therapy you need for the shortest time you can.
    • Go for regular check-ups to make sure your treatment is still working.
    • Lead a healthy lifestyle with sport, a healthy diet, no smoking, little alcohol and stress management.

    What is the risk of breast cancer?

    One of the biggest risks of hormone replacement therapy is breast cancer. Although the risk is relatively low, long-term use of hormone replacement therapy is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. However, the risk of developing breast cancer from hormone replacement therapy is much lower than the risk of developing breast cancer due to other factors such as age, obesity, alcohol consumption and genetic factors.

    Women who have a family history of breast cancer or who already have breast cancer should talk to their doctor about the possible risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy may not be recommended, or other precautions may be taken, such as regular breast examinations and mammograms.

    Do alternative treatment methods also help?

    It is important that you talk to your doctor about any alternative treatments you are considering, as some alternative treatments may interact with other medications you are taking or may not be safe in your individual case.

    Apart from the severe symptoms, some menopausal symptoms can be alleviated by lifestyle changes or alternative medication.

    • Consume enough calcium and vitamin D to support the health of your bones.
    • Exercise for your general health and for your bones.
    • Use a water-based lubricant or a vaginal cream containing oestrogen to relieve the discomfort.
    • Write down when your hot flushes occur so that you can find out what triggers them.
    • Sleep in a cool room with breathable bedding and clothing.
    • Have a cold drink ready if a hot flush occurs.
    • Hot flushes can be treated with medication such as certain antidepressants.

    These are just some of the many alternative treatments you can consider.

    So what is the bottom line?

    In summary, hormone replacement therapy can be an effective treatment for some women with menopausal symptoms, but it is not suitable for everyone. It is important that you talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy and consider alternative treatment options if hormone replacement therapy is not an option for you. Don't forget to maintain a healthy lifestyle, e.g. exercise and a balanced diet, to help manage your menopausal symptoms.

    Hot flush hacks: 8 proven tips to minimize your symptoms

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    Are you tired of hot flushes and night sweats disrupting your daily life? You are not alone. Many women suffer from these symptoms during the menopause, but there are ways to minimize their effects. In this blog, we'll give you eight tips on how to get hot flushes and night sweats under control and improve your overall quality of life.

    1. dress in layers

    Heat can trigger hot flashes, so it's important to dress in layers. Think about the temperature fluctuations you will be exposed to throughout the day and plan your clothing accordingly. This way, you can easily remove layers when you get too warm and put them back on when you feel cool.

    2. create a cool bedroom

    Night sweats can be prevented by keeping cool. Lower the temperature in your bedroom before you go to bed and use a fan to circulate the air. Cotton bedding and clothing will allow your skin to breathe, keeping you cooler. You should also keep an ice pack or a glass of ice water on your bedside table to cool you down if you sweat during the night.

    3. move

    Regular exercise can help relieve hot flushes, even if you might not think so. Research has shown that people who don't exercise are more likely to get hot flushes. Exercise also helps you maintain a healthy weight, which is associated with fewer and less intense symptoms. Just make sure you exercise in a cool place and dress in layers.

    4. eat the right foods

    The right diet can also help with hot flushes. Try to eat small, light meals and avoid spicy foods that can trigger the symptoms. Some foods contain plant estrogens that can help balance hormonal changes, such as dried beans, chickpeas, flaxseeds, fruits, grains, lentils, soybeans and vegetables.

    5. maintain a healthy weight

    Being overweight or obese can make hot flushes worse. But maintaining a healthy weight can help to alleviate the symptoms. Try to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Even simple changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator can help.

    6. stop smoking

    Did you know that smoking can make hot flushes worse? This is true, especially if you are overweight. Quitting smoking before the age of 40 has been shown to reduce the likelihood of hot flushes and night sweats. It's also good for your heart to stop smoking, which is particularly important during menopause.

    7. know your triggers

    Avoiding common triggers such as alcohol, caffeine, hot drinks, excessive heat, hot weather, spicy food, stress and tight clothing can help you avoid hot flashes and night sweats. Keep a diary or journal of your symptoms to recognize your personal triggers and avoid them if possible.

    8. talk to your doctor

    If you're struggling with hot flushes, don't hesitate to speak to your doctor. There are a number of treatments that can help alleviate symptoms, such as prescription or over-the-counter medications, hormone replacement therapy and complementary treatments like meditation, deep breathing and acupuncture. Your doctor can help you find the best treatment plan for you.

    We hope these tips will help you to keep a cool head and feel comfortable during your hot flushes!

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    Causes of the menopause

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    You don't know what causes the menopause. Get an overview here.

    The natural menopause

    The natural menopause is a process in which a woman permanently stops menstruating without medical intervention. This process is usually described in three phases: Perimenopause (premenopause), menopause and postmenopause.

    When the ovaries no longer have any functioning eggs, the menopause occurs naturally in women.

    At birth, most women have around 1 to 3 million eggs, which decrease over time. By a girl's first period, there are on average about 400,000 eggs, and by the time of menopause, a woman may have fewer than 10,000 eggs. Of these, most die through a process called atresia and a small number are lost through normal ovulation (the monthly cycle).

    Normally, the hormone responsible for the growth of follicles (egg cells) in the first half of a woman's menstrual cycle is follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The remaining egg cells become more resistant to FSH as the menopause approaches. As a result, the ovaries significantly reduce their production of the hormone oestrogen and the menopause occurs.

    The medically induced menopause

    Not all women go through the menopause naturally; some women go through the menopause as a result of medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. This is known as a medically induced menopause.

    A surgical menopause occurs when a woman's ovaries are surgically removed before the menopause (so-called bilateral oophorectomy), which leads to an abrupt onset of the menopause and often to more severe menopausal symptoms than with a natural menopause.

    The bilateral oophorectomywhich is the surgical removal of both ovaries, is usually performed to treat cancers such as cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancer. However, it can also be performed for non-cancerous conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis or infections.

    A hysterectomyin which the uterus is removed may or may not include a bilateral oophorectomy, depending on the case. If the ovaries are not removed, a hysterectomy does not usually lead to menopause and the ovaries usually remain functional.

    Other operations in which both ovaries can be removed are abdominal resection for colon and rectal cancer and the total pelvic exenteration for recurrent cervical cancer.

    For the abdominal resection usually involves removing the lower colon and rectum. However, the surgeon can also remove part or all of the uterus as well as the ovaries and posterior vaginal wall.

    With the total pelvic exenteration the surgeon removes most of the pelvic organs, including the uterus, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, bladder, urethra and part of the rectum.

    In addition, medical treatments such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation can damage the ovaries and induce menopause, although this is not the case for all women who undergo these treatments.

    As a woman, you should be aware that the effects of these medical interventions on the menopause can vary from woman to woman and do not always lead to permanent damage or induced menopause.

    Improve your mood: 10 tips to beat the blues

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    A depressed mood can be a difficult mental illness to overcome, but there are ways you can develop at home to beat the blues and improve your mental wellbeing. Whether it's checking your vitamin D levels or getting creative, here are 10 effective tips to help you improve your mood and thrive.

    Check your vitamin D level

    Low vitamin D levels can lead to tiredness, weakness and mood swings such as depression. If you feel poorly, you should have your vitamin D level checked. Your doctor can do a blood test to see if you could benefit from vitamin D supplementation.

    Set yourself small goals

    Everything can feel overwhelming when you're struggling with depression. Instead of setting big goals, try breaking things down into smaller, more manageable tasks. Setting SMART goals can help you stay on track and get a sense of accomplishment.

    Eat a healthy diet

    Diet can be a common problem with depressed mood. Make sure you eat a balanced, Mediterranean diet to reduce your risk of depression. Cooking healthy meals can be a challenge when you're feeling depressed. So try simple, stress-free recipes like microwaved salmon with an apple and baby carrots.

    Stay in touch with your loved ones

    Social isolation can increase the risk of depression. It is therefore important for your mental and physical well-being to stay in touch with friends and family. If you can't meet anyone in person, try to keep in touch using technology such as texting or video chatting.

    Spend time in nature

    Spending time outdoors, whether it's in your garden or a nearby park, has been shown to have many positive effects on your mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress levels, improve mood and increase attention span.

    Keep a diary of gratitude

    Practicing gratitude can improve your mental health and your relationships. Take a few minutes each day to write down the things you are grateful for. This can help you to appreciate the good things in your life, even on difficult days.

    Practice mindfulness

    Mindfulness is an effective way to combat the symptoms of depression. You can try simple meditation techniques that focus on reducing worry and repetitive thoughts. It can also help to visualize a symbol for your depressive symptoms and let it go.

    Exercise regularly

    Exercise can be just as effective as antidepressants in treating depression. When you're feeling low, it can be difficult to start exercising, so start small. Even a short walk outside or a gentle yoga class can improve your mood and boost your physical health.

    Declutter your home

    Having too many things in your home can be stressful and make your life more difficult. Tidying and decluttering can help you gain a sense of control over your environment, reduce stress and overwhelm and make it easier to complete daily tasks. Even small steps, such as throwing away garbage, can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing.

    Get creative

    Art therapy has proven effective as part of a treatment plan for many mental illnesses, including depression. Engage in creative projects that help you express your feelings, structure and give meaning to your day, and give you a sense of accomplishment.

    Remember that a depressed mood can be depression, which is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. But these tips can help boost your mental health and improve your overall well-being. Start with one or two that you like and incorporate them into your daily routine. Over time, you'll find that these small changes add up to a big improvement in your mental health.

    How you can master your menopause and improve your well-being

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    As women approach the menopause, they often experience a number of physical and emotional changes. One of the most common symptoms is hot flushes, which can be very disruptive and affect general well-being.

    We all know that the menopause can be a difficult time. One of the most common and frustrating symptoms of the menopause is hot flushes. They may only last a few minutes, but their effects can be felt for much longer, affecting your ability to function and enjoy life.

    Many women even suffer from hot flushes for a year or more, which can have a significant impact on their general well-being. If you regularly struggle with hot flushes and night sweats, this can disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling tired and exhausted. And did you know that sleep problems have been linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease?

    But it's not all bad news. There are steps you can take to manage your hot flushes and get a grip on your well-being. Find out how here:

    Stay active

    Physical activity is very important during the menopause. Not only does it help you maintain a healthy weight, but it also builds bone density, protects against heart disease and keeps your energy levels high. Regular exercise can even help you sleep better and manage your symptoms better.

    Prioritize self-care

    Make time for activities that make you feel good, such as hobbies or a relaxing bubble bath. Find a calming exercise, such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga, to help you cope with stress and anxiety. Staying in touch with friends and family can also lift your mood and motivate you.

    Reduce hot flushes

    There are many strategies you can use to reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flushes. Talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or prescription antidepressants, which can be effective in treating hot flashes. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, hot spices and stress can also help.

    Pay attention to your well-being

    Pay attention to how you feel on a daily basis and watch for changes in your mood, stress levels or sleep patterns. If your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it may be time to talk to your doctor about other options.

    Menopause can be challenging, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. By taking care of your physical and mental health, staying active and reducing your hot flushes, you can take control of your wellbeing and enjoy this new phase of life.

    If your symptoms are interfering with your daily life, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend hormone therapy, alternative treatments, changes in diet and exercise, and other ways to manage vasomotor symptoms to help you feel your best.