May 27, 2025

1. Introduction

We are the wonder work of God himself. So wonderful that we are, every fibre of our being speaks volumes of our marvellous biological architecture. Just observe your body, how intricate it is and how mysterious. In spite of all research throughout the history of humankind, we are not able to unravel all the marvels of our bodily organs. A smallest piece of nail or a single hair of ours can identify the uniqueness of your complex body through a single DNA test.

As a woman, I can exhort all women to admire the mystery of their own body. We grow up and as we grow up every organism develops to fulfil its task and one of the supreme and most significant function of a woman’s body is pro-creation or proliferation of new life. As the age of puberty dawns all the organs switch on their functions towards this important task: the chemicals in the body produce the egg each month, then the process of menstrual cycle and finally after the body has completed its potentials, it step by step terminates the entire process arriving at its destination called, the stage of ‘menopause’. The word ‘menopause’ means the halt or cessation or termination of ovary mechanisms which produces eggs. The stoppage of monthly periods for a woman is a natural biological process which demands lot of understanding from her part in order to collaborate wisely with the entire process that occurs within her.

First of all, the phenomenon of ‘menopause’ is not a disease, not a sickness, not an illness, but only a natural biological process of the body. Every woman should become aware of it, know its intricacies and respond wisely and prudently, so that the mind and body cooperate with the entire biological process. It’s a part of life, just like getting our first menstrual period in the process of our physical growth. But we must know what menopause is, how it starts, what changes it brings about in our lives, and how we can handle it with confidence and care. Whether a woman nearing it, going through it, or just curious, this information is for all women, so that we understand and support each other. The term menopause comes from Greek and Latin languages. In Greek “menos” means month, and in Latin it is “mensis.” (menstrual means monthly); ‘pause’ as we know, means “cease, halt or stop”. ‘Meno-pause’ means ‘ceasing of menstrual periods.

Let me present to you an anecdote. For the past 20 years, my friend Teresa has focused on raising her kids, managing their school, activities, and lessons. But as she neared 40, she started feeling empty. At work she struggled with colleagues and her boss. She used to handle many tasks in her 30s, but now as menopause set in, her energy became low, and she wondered, "What's happening to me?"

Many of us handle multiple tasks with high energy, but when menopause is in the offing, even though we still do them, our energy levels dwindle. Many people, especially my clients, have shared similar experiences feeling more active in the past and now losing interest in things. These imbalances in our bodies can happen over time.

The best example could be that of teachers. Menopause can affect a teacher in several ways that may indirectly impact students. Some of the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that come with menopause can influence a teacher's energy levels, mood, and concentration. As teachers, they are always busy managing classrooms, grading or evaluating papers, and taking care of their families. Menopause can feel like an extra challenge, but with the right knowledge, it can also be a time of strength and growth. Let’s then dive in.

2. What is ‘menopause’ and how does It begin?

a. "Menopause is when a woman’s (menstrual) periods stop for good. It’s the end of the monthly cycle we’ve had for years”. It usually happens between 45 and 55 years, but for some, it can come earlier or later. It’s not a sudden switch-off – it’s a process.
b. How it starts? Before menopause, there’s a phase called perimenopause (or pre-menopause). This is when our body starts preparing. Our periods might become irregular sometimes heavy, sometimes light, or skipping months. This can last a few months or even a few years.
c. My friend Lakshmi noticed her periods came every two months instead of every month, and she wondered what was happening. Her periods became irregular, and unexpectedly she grew angry with her husband. During menopause, she experienced vaginal dryness and a decrease in sexual interest, which made her feel irritated toward her husband. As a result, they often had quarrels and arguments. That was her perimenopause or stage of starting!
d. One of my clients has noticed that she felt tired and has trouble in focusing at work in the mornings. Her moods became more unpredictable, with times of irritability and feeling down, even though she is usually optimistic. This was the symptom of perimenopause. It happens because our ovaries slow down producing hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones used to control our periods and keep our bodies in balance. When they decrease, our body gets adjusted to a new normal."

3. What are the symptoms?

Please note that every woman’s experience is different, but there are some common signs:

a. Hot flashes: Suddenly feeling very hot, sweaty or flushed, even in a cool room. It might last a few seconds or minutes. Imagine standing in front of a crowd and suddenly feeling like you’re in an oven even when the AC is on!
b. Night sweats: Waking up drenched in sweat at night. One woman I know said, she had to change her nightie twice in one night!
c. Mood swings: Feeling happy one minute, then irritably sad the next. It’s like being on an emotional rollercoaster, which could affect interactions with others. Sometimes during menopause women experience unexpected swings in their moods, rebuke the subordinates without reason, even insult others in fury.
d. Sleep trouble: Hard to fall asleep or stay asleep because of sweats or restlessness. Due to changes in sleep patterns, a woman might feel more tired, which could affect her ability to focus on her work throughout the day.
e. Tiredness: Feeling low on energy, even after rest. When you were young you must not have experienced all these, now you have to realize that you are approaching menopause.
f. Body changes: Thinner hair, drier skin, or weight gain around the belly.
g. Headaches and joint pain: These common symptoms could affect a woman’s ability to move around and perform her duties.
h. Memory fog: Forgetting small things, like where you kept your pen, at what time is the bus and where you have to get down; memory lapses are manifested when you search for the mobile everywhere actually holding it in your own hand, fill the cooker with rice and forget to add water or forget to turn off the gas!

Please note that everyone may not get all of these. Some may have only hot flashes, while others might feel more tired. My cousin sailed through menopause with just irregular periods, while her sister had hot flashes for two years. It’s unique to each of us.

4. How to handle the symptoms?

a. First of all, stay cool and comfortable. For hot flashes, wear light cotton kurtas or sarees, namely the clothing you can change easily. Keep a mini plastic fan or a wet cloth handy. At night, use cotton bedsheets and keep a glass of cold water at your bed.
b. Take care of your mood
• If you’re feeling moody or stressed, take short breaks. Step out of the working place for a deep breath or chat with a friend. Even doing this five minute can help.
• Try simple relaxation like closing your eyes, breathing in and out for 4 counts. It works wonders.
c. Sleep better
• Avoid tea or coffee in the evening – it can keep you awake. A warm glass of milk or green tea might help instead. Keep your room cool and dark.
d. Eat smart
• Add calcium-rich foods like milk, curd, or ragi to keep your bones strong. Eat fruits, veggies, and nuts for energy. Cut down on spicy or oily food if it triggers hot flashes."
• My neighbour Radha found her hot flashes reduced when she stopped eating spicy pickles every day!
e. Move Your Body
• A 20-minute walk, yoga, or even dancing to your favourite song can lift your mood and keep you fit. You don’t need a gym – just move in a way you enjoy.
f. Talk about it
There is nothing to feel shy about the matter. Share with your family or friends. Tell your husband ‘I might need a little extra patience today.’ They’ll understand better.

6. Cooperating with bodily changes

a. Accept the change: Menopause is not a disease but a transition. Think of it like moving from summer to rainy season. Your body is settling into a new rhythm. Be kind to yourself – you’ve handled so much already as a mother and as a responsible citizen. Develop your self-confidence strategy.
b. Adjust your routine: If you’re tired, rest when you can. If you’re sweaty, freshen up without feeling embarrassed.
• Your energy might dip, so prioritize what’s important – maybe that you prioritise your obligations and duties and create intervals n between.
c. See a physician if needed: If symptoms like heavy bleeding or severe mood swings bother you, talk to a doctor. There are medicines or therapies that can help. My colleague Priya got a simple treatment for her hot flashes, and it made a big difference.
d. Build a support circle: Talk to friends going through this. Share tips, laugh about the sweaty moments – it makes it lighter. We’re in this together!

7. Living a healthy life after menopause

a. Focus on long-term health
• After menopause, our bones and heart need extra care. Keep eating well, stay active, and check your health annually. Note an example: My aunt started walking daily after menopause, and at 60, she’s stronger than ever!
b. Embrace the positives: No more periods mean no more buying pads – indeed additional freedom! Many women feel wiser and more confident in this phase. You’ve raised kids, spent years holding responsible positions – this is your time to shine in a new way.

8. Public manifestation of the symptoms and effects.

The symptoms and effects of menopause, even though severe, should not be publicly manifested as far as possible:
a. Your dealings in your work place should not get affected. For this you should psychologically prepare yourself and be careful that your feelings and biological changes do not to affect your relationship with others.
b. Others are not aware of your condition; their behaviour remains what it is. They may annoy you, make you impatient, and even disturb you, sometimes even suddenly. Hence you should be constantly on your guard.
c. This is not difficult if you take precautions. Mentally and physically prepare yourself to anticipate sudden menopausal symptoms explained above.
d. Organise your programmes in advance, so that you do not burden yourselves with additional activities which can trigger anger, arrogance, or unwanted or unexpected behaviour.

9. Conclusion

You’re amazing women – managing, organising, teaching, nurturing, and inspiring every day. Menopause is just one more thing you’ll master. Let’s support each other and make this phase a beautiful part of our journey. Wish you all strength, health, and happiness. Let’s keep shining!