
The Lowdown
Menopause is defined as one day that marks 12 months since your final period. In the UK, the average age of menopause is 51 years. Leading up to, and following, menopause most women experience symptoms of changing hormones. The most common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, poor sleep, cognitive changes like brain fog, irregular periods, poor mood, low libido, changes to the genitourinary function, joint pain and weight gain. These symptoms can occur up to ten years before and following the menopause and have significant effects on a woman’s functioning and general quality of life. The long-term effects of estrogen deprivation can include devastating chronic health conditions, such as dementia, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. With women living longer, menopause can have significant impacts on health and well-being, the health system, and society as a whole.
So how do you know if you are entering the menopause transition? Well, the NICE guidelines state that women over 45 should be diagnosed by symptoms, not bloodwork. These same guidelines recommend hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, as the first line treatment for symptoms of the menopause. They also advocate that women should be well informed and have freedom of decision making. But in an age where menopause remains one of the most under-diagnosed, under-researched, under-treated and under-funded fields in medicine, women tend to get swallowed up in the unknown and the unheard, not knowing where to turn. There is also much fear around use of hormone therapy, following the outcomes of some studies, such as the Women’s Health Initiative in 1991. That’s where coaching can help empower women to make informed decisions about their journey, such as using hormone therapy, or exploring alternative therapies.
Coaching
Coaching embodies a place of connection where you can feel acknowledged, heard, and supported to achieve what matters most to you. Whether you are a woman contemplating HRT, taking HRT, discontinuing HRT, or unable to take HRT, coaching may be suitable for you to make informed decisions about your current and future health.
While Jane’s wealth of medical expertise grounds her in clinical excellence, she believes that emotional wellbeing, mental health, and spiritual wellness are intricately interwoven to achieve healing and wholeness. Rest assured, you will find a safe space and an individualised, person-centred approach to your menopause journey.
Coaching is very much directed by the individual. An initial assessment with include a comprehensive review of your past medical history and current situation, with options and a plan for moving forward. If you would benefit from ongoing support, this can be arranged with a schedule to suit your needs and lifestyle.
Please email janeclarkenursing@gmail.com or call 07767 694 775 for more information, to discuss prices, or to book a consultation. Coaching can take place in your own home (within the Mendip locale), within a clinic setting, or online depending on your preference.