Libido and hormones

If one day you find yourself having hot flashes and night sweats, irritable and depressed for no reason whatsoever, disinterested in sex, experiencing chronic fatigue and joint pains, having panic attacks, and other new symptoms, which you did not have before, consult your gynecologist or endocrinologist right away. You could be entering that phase in your life called menopause and your hormones are no longer kicking in like they used to.

“What happened to the sex goddess I used to know?  I don’t know her anymore as she has turned into an ice maiden!” one exasperated husband told his wife.  That wife happens to be one of my BFFs, and as expected, I received a blow-by-blow account on her dwindling libido, and her other symptoms that are driving her mate up the wall. I recalled my conversation with Suzanne Sommers about this painful passage of life and what she did about it.  (Yes, Suzanne Sommers, the famous TV star-turned-writer on health and beauty.)  I happened to be seated between her and her husband during a three-hour dinner party in Shanghai and most of the conversation revolved around how she restored her sexiness through natural hormones. She explained that hormones have a massive impact on a woman’s body and daily life.  As a result, low hormone levels, which occur during major life changes, such as menopause and puberty, can unleash a host of unwanted symptoms.  This is why it is essential that women are informed by their doctor of the different hormones circulating around their bodies and how a change of hormone levels can affect them in a major way.

“I was so miserable as I had a host of unfavorable symptoms and my system was out of whack. I was only in my mid 40s, quite young to menopause, but it happened.  I was itchy, bitchy, sweaty, depressed, fatigued, I had zero libido, and feeling so unsexy.  I was so wanting to feel normal again so I did a lot of research work.  I did not want to take synthetic hormones.  I knew there are natural ways to heal the body.”

In her book, The Sexy Years, Sommers describes how she restored herself in a holistic way  meaning, body, mind and spirit  by taking bio-identical hormones, doing a lot of exercise, and eating healthy.
How do we know what hormones to take and what are bio identical hormones? 

In Manila, one can go to Dr. Marissa Torre, who trained in Germany and the US specializing in Preventive Medicine and Anti-aging Therapy.   I go to Dr. Marissa when I feel my immune system needs a boost.  She gives me an infusion of vitamins C and B complex and a treasure trove of other vitamins and I feel revitalized.  There are ladies who go to her for hormones, but before she prescribes them, Dr. Torre takes a hormone panel test through their saliva to determine what they lack. She sends the samples to laboratories in Australia or the USA for analysis.  Her approach is very individualized.  A precise dosage of natural estrogen, testosterone, progesterone or DHEA is created to meet their needs. This is what is known as bio-identical hormones. She explains that bio-identical hormones are manufactured to match the molecular structures of hormones made by your own body, and act in the body just like the hormones we produce. So it is also called natural hormones. They are compounded from plant extracts like yams, flaxseed, and soy. Bio-identical hormones are supposed to be better than synthetic hormones because they are natural and our bodies can metabolize them well, minimizing side effects. Synthetic hormones are quite strong and sometimes produce intolerable side effects. Furthermore, the compounded bio-identical hormones can be matched individually to a person’s needs which is not possible with mass-produced products.
When hormone levels are optimized, people typically have more physical energy and strength, greater mental clarity, improved clarity of sleep, increased libido, a more positive attitude, and look and feel younger...read more

44 percent of postmenopausal women with distal radius fracture have low levels of vitamin D

Preventative efforts may reduce the number of hip fractures

SAN FRANCISCO – Wrist fractures, also called distal radius fractures (DRF), are among the most common osteoporosis-related fractures occurring on average 15 years earlier than hip fractures. As vitamin D deficiency has recently been linked with muscle weakness, increased fall risks, and bone fractures, investigators sought to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among post menopausal women with DRF. The study, "Hypovitaminosis D in Postmenopausal Women with a Distal Radius Fracture," was presented today at the 2012 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Medical records of 104 post menopausal women treated for a DRF, and 107 age-matched control patients with soft tissue disease, were reviewed. Mean vitamin D levels were "significantly" lower in the DRF group of patients. Specifically, 26 percent of the DRF patients were vitamin D insufficient (having vitamin D serum levels between 20 and 32 ng/ml), and 18 percent, deficient (serum levels below 20 ng/ml), compared to 11 percent and 2 percent of patients being vitamin D insufficient and deficient, respectively, in the control group.

Further research may determine whether vitamin D supplementation (or, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels) can help prevent distal radius fractures, or prevent future fractures in patients that experience their first distal radius fracture.

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About the AAOS
With more than 37,000 members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, (http://www.aaos.org) o  is the premier not-for-profit organization that provides education programs for orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals, champions the interests of patients and advances the highest quality of musculoskeletal health. Orthopaedic surgeons and the Academy are the authoritative sources of information for patients and the general public on musculoskeletal conditions, treatments and related issues. An advocate for improved care, the Academy is participating in the Bone and Joint Initiative (http://www.usbjd.org), the global initiative to raise awareness of musculoskeletal health, stimulate research and improve people's quality of life. The Academy's 2012 Annual Meeting is being held February 7 - 11, 2012 at the San Francisco Moscone Center in San Francisco.

Migraines and Menopause

I want to talk about migraines, me and menopause. I suffer from migraines which became worse after I reached menopause. I don't like migraines. There are days when I feel like my brain has been ran over my a freight train. Menopausal women need to be aware of migraine disease and how to make a difference.

Migraine is a disorder characterized by chronic, severe headaches of intense throbbing or pulsating pain that can last from four hours to several days. Other migraine symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Nearly 30 million Americans suffer from migraine, which is more common in women than in men.

First, it is hard to function when you have a migraine, add to that menopause and it's almost impossible. But like most women I have obligations. I have work and family I have to take care of. How do I survive through it? By being on top the game called awareness.

Little things you can do to make a difference and share awareness:

Did you know? An estimated 30% of women experience migraine headaches before menopause, and that percentage only increases during the time of menopause. Read on to learn more about migraine headaches, their types and their symptoms to be better equipped to identify them, aiding in their treatment.

Be aware migraines can get worse during menopause. Check out this resource for more information.

To read and research to is be aware. To search and share is making a difference. I blog about different health issues, but migraines and menopause not only affects me, but you as well. Take time to be aware and make a difference by sharing your story or your insights. It isn't easy living with migraines when you have obligations, but with helpful knowledge it can be done.

A great resource is Menopause and Migraine written by Lynne O. Geweke, MD.

Post by Guest Blogger  Debra Ann at   High Heels and Hot Flashes

How To Prevent Menopause Skin Problems

Hot flashes and hormones gone haywire - most women know about these more common menopausal concerns. But what about skin changes? The latest article by Skincare-News.com, Prevent Menopause Symptoms Now: 6 Ways to Maintain Healthy Skin, reveals ways that women -- whether they're 25 or 45 -- can make changes in their skincare regimens to stay a step ahead of menopause.
Skin type changes throughout the life cycle, even before menopause, and often changes with the seasons or if women travel to other climates. Preparing for hormonal changes during menopause means that women should have a good understanding of their skin, whether it's dry and dehydrated or oily and acne-prone. As skin types fluctuate, how can women be prepared to make the right changes in their daily regimens?


Once a woman understands her skin type, it's time to develop a skin care routine that nourishes the skin and arms it against the symptoms of menopause later on. A good regimen should start with cleansing gently so as not to irritate the skin, and follow with a toner to wipe away surface toxins and tighten pores. And finally, a good moisturizer and exfoliating product will ensure that the skin stays sufficiently hydrated. What types of products are suited for each particular skin type?


Beyond products and basic routines, lifestyle corrections can make a big difference in how the skin ages. With age, the skin isn't able to recover as well from those bad habits like poor diet, lack of sleep, smoking and drinking. Good lifestyle choices now will make the skin more resilient later on. What types of positive lifestyle changes should women start to make now for great skin later on? T 
Find answers to all these questions and much more on preparing skin now for skin changes that happen during menopause, including how to develop a skin-healthy diet and when to see a dermatologist, at Skincare-News.com.

Got dry or rough skin from face to feet? Or a combo complexion with dehydrated cheeks and an oily T-zone that still doesn't get smooth or soft no matter what? A variety of culprits are to blame for bone-dry skin. Environmental elements like chilly, windy weather and UV rays can dry out the skin. So can the many things associated with summer like salt water and chlorine. Skin also naturally gets drier with age. Thankfully, even though it might sound like skin has many moisture-zapping culprits to contend with, there are simple and effective ways to help skin retain moisture. Here are 11 of the easiest and most effective for getting hydrated and supple skin all over...read more.

‘Change Her Mind’… and she can age with Substance and Style!

Reaching mid-life is a time of change, a change that seems to literally happen overnight.  ‘One morning she wakes and as she looks in the mirror without any warning she sees someone she does not recognize looking back at her’.   Time is continual in movement and one thing that is absolutely certain is that change is inevitable.  People change, fashion changes, trends change and seasons change.  And just like the seasons a woman moving through the stages of menopause must regularly ‘change her clothes’ to cater for the various moods and temperatures that occur from within.  It is important for a woman 40+ to exercise behavioural flexibility and be willing to make the necessary changes in order to embrace the new and exciting things that can evolve through the various stages of this change.

Think Young… Feel Younger… and have a Youthful Vitality?
Is it possible to age gracefully and keep a ‘youthfulness of energy’ and a ‘youngness of attitude’? 

Do women really want to hold on to the innocence of youth or do they want to celebrate the wisdom of experience that can bring with it the freedom to just BE?

Women want the ‘vitality of youth’ and the ‘mind-set of age’.  They want to be able to have the freedom to be, do and have whatever they want! And not be bogged down or limited by pain, fear, frustration, wrinkles and an unfit, flabby saggy body.

Too many women become complacent and accepting of the ill-health symptoms of ageing. They live lives of quiet desperation with a mind full of limiting beliefs and fears. It is important for all women to only accept what is for the good of them and to accept anything less is compromising not only the heart but an entire life. 

It saddens me to see all too often women living in this state of mediocrity and pain simply because they are afraid of change.  Fear is not reality it is only a thought in the minds of those who do not realize their full potential and greatness.  Fear can be a gift because with fear a woman is able to grow… and yes, the symptoms of ageing require change if beauty, balance and harmony are to be reached.  It is in expanding the boundaries of thinking to see the possibilities and potential that relief and growth can be realized and obtained… change the mind and the body can follow!

 

When a woman begins her journey through the stages of menopause she can lose her ‘natural flow’ and this interruption must be recognized for what it is so this ‘natural flow’ can be ‘reset’.  It is not a disease, an illness or a lifelong sentence… it is a stage… a phase… a time for personal growth and self-awareness. 

Aging is a wondrous journey of joy and celebration and as ‘she looks in the mirror and sees a face that shows the signs of ageing’ she want to be able smile at the reflection looking back at her and love the lines for what they represent… her life up till now! 

Although a woman 40+ must say goodbye to being ‘young’… thinking young is one of the secrets to staying youthful.  The ‘rules’ to success are simple and like any goal in life there is a plan and a system to follow.  It takes a little knowledge, a little effort and someone to be accountable to.  This is one of the strategies to ultimate success because relieving menopause symptoms is a step by step… week by week process that requires dedication and discipline… and it starts by breaking through all negative belief barriers. 

Recognized by some as a ‘woman’s second blooming’ it is in learning how to do it differently, that can help relieve the negative side-effects to ageing to create a new happy and healthy balance.

1.       Find amazement with things and bring out the ‘child’ inside sometimes...
2.       Feel passion and excitement and develop interests that give great pleasure…
4.       Focus on the effort of ‘doing ‘and be around people that believe in you and people     who challenge you…
5.       Develop a sense of humour and do things that make you laugh…
6.       Have courage… one courageous act leads to another, it creates a courageous
          mentality.
7.       Build successful relationships. 

“People are like candles, not useful until they are lit.  When one discovers their purpose they are illuminated.  Their light shines wherever they go” Lisa Jimenez

It is more than relieving menopause symptoms… it is about building a woman’s self-esteem and self-image in preparation for the rest of her life

The Menopause Relief Advisor Program is primarily a personal development program and is a new concept that uses BRAIN Training and NLP.  It has been created specifically to target the unique challenges known only to a woman 40+.  The program removes a woman’s unwanted associations to ageing and it provides anti-ageing and wellness strategies that when implemented can teach a woman to think young and live life with passion and purpose. 

Excellence never occurs by accident. It always comes as the result of quality thinking and specific, purposeful actions.  To become a woman of substance and style she must do everything with the single purpose of achieving excellence… she must do it with the total belief and appreciation that excellence counts… that she counts and that menopause is merely a ‘stepping stone’ to becoming the person she was meant to be.

A woman 40+ must find passion in her life and this passion must come from her heart without doubt, fear or concern.  All actions must come from a sub-conscious programming of who she is NOW and she must stop, be still and know that she is ‘allowed’… no expected to live a life of total fulfilment and to be free to become the woman she wants to be without question or judgment.  To be assertive in her mind and voice so that she can accept only what builds her self-esteem and purpose.  She must possess a quiet inner knowledge that she, and who she is, is worthy of all good… and that this change when challenged with a relaxed sense of enthusiasm produces a woman with substance and style.  

Article by Guest Blogger: Susan Sheehan  www.menopausereliefadvisor.com

Menopause Symptoms

A woman's body goes through numerous phases like puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. Severity and sort of menopause symptoms - nausea, headache, hair loss, might vary from lady to lady. throughout perimenopause or premenopause (onset of menopause), numerous menopause symptoms begin showing. ladies might suffer from the symptoms of menopause between the ages of 45-55,though average menopause age is alleged to be fifty one years. If the question 'what are the symptoms of menopause' is swirling in your mind immediately, then here may be a list of menopause symptoms.

Hot Flashes
Many women are known to expertise hot flashes throughout their menopause. This can be the foremost common symptom. Hot flashes will result in sudden, transient sensation of warmth, speeding of blood to the chest, feeling hot to the touch the skin still as sweating.

Depression
Unexplained disappointment, low vanity, feelings of gloom, and inadequacy are usually found in ladies undergoing menopause. This can be because of a decline within the estrogen levels. Although, depression isn't an indication of menopause, there are alternative factors like family problems and private crises that increase the probabilities of those symptoms in ladies hunting menopause. Depression throughout menopause may also result in eating and sleeping disorders, anxiety, and discouragement.

Night Sweats
Waking up, within the middle of the night, with garments wet means that you're having night sweats. In conjunction with hot flashes, night sweats may additionally occur; generally along. At night, some ladies might feel cold, whereas their bodies are sweating. The explanation is that girls undergo hormonal changes throughout menopause, that ends up in night sweats.

Mental Fatigue
Drained because of thinking an excessive amount of regarding the menopausal amount, may result in mental fatigue. Constant worrying will place ladies in such a state of affairs. Exhaustion because of mental and physical exercise, and lack of stamina ends up in mental fatigue.

Anger
Strong emotions, starting from minimal annoyance to full-blown rage, don't seem to be uncommon.

Weight Gain
Weight gain because of hormonal imbalances, has been observed throughout menopause.

Insomnia
Sleep disorders like insomnia or sleeplessness is sort of common prevalence throughout menopause.

Memory issues
Forgetfulness is another symptom of menopause. Some ladies might expertise issues connected with forgetfulness.

Dizziness
Menopause in ladies is additionally characterised by sudden dizziness.

Indigestion and Bloating
Failure to digest might cause abdominal discomfort or heartburn.

...Read more: 

About Fibromyalgia

We have so many Cool-jams clients that suffer from Fibromyalgia...oftentimes  accompanied by night sweats and hot flashes. May is Fibromyalgia Education and Awareness Month, so we thought we would post a guest post by Debra Ann Elliot, our friend at High Heels and Hot Flashes. 

What it is? It promotes education and awareness of the dangers of fibromyalgia, which is also known as fibromyalgia syndrome, fibrositis or chronic muscle pain syndrome. 

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder usually characterized by chronic widespread pain, multiple tender points, abnormal pain processing, sleep disturbances, , fatigue and often psychological distress. It’s most common among women aged 20 to 50 although studies are indicating more teens and males are affected.  Fibromyalgia affects more than 12 million American women.  

What can you do?

Get involved with the Autoimmunity Research Foundation.

Because my blog's main focus is menopause it's important to know the facts about fibromyalgia and menopause.

I am a sufferer of fibromyalgia. Some days are better than others. It is something I've come to learn to live with. You can make a difference by becoming involved in spreading the word about fibromyalgia. Join the cause!

Posted by guest Blogger: Debra Ann Elliot of High Heels and Hot Flashes