03 September 2023 , 22:06
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A doctor has revealed an unexpected potential symptom of menopause which could be affecting your stomach.
We know the textbook hot flushes, dizziness, and effects on mood menopause can cause but issues with the digestive system are less well known. During the menopause, this might manifest as bloating, gassiness, constipation, and diarrhoea.
One gastronomy expert told British Vogue, that while it is contested wether it is age or menopause that affects the gut, we know that menopause can affect your body’s sensitivity to pain on the whole.
Dr Pathipati said that natural consequences of getting older, such as weakening pelvic muscles, may also contribute to any discomfort. She advised that removing any foods from your diet that you notice trigger an adverse reaction is wise. Equally, practicing yoga or anything which encourages cardiovascular movement is key.
Harley Street Menopause Specialist and GP Dr Stephanie Goodwin said differing hormones can change the way your digestive system operates with the advent of menopause and perimenopause.
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Writing on her blog, she said “erratic” oestrogen levels might encourage higher levels of fluids in the body - which may leave you feeling bloated. Progesterone - which helps remove excess fluid from the body is also affected, leading to a potential slowing down of the whole process.
The bile production process is also influenced by oestrogen, meaning your intestines are likely to be less efficient. This news comes after it has been announced that the UK's will launch it’s first menopause education programme to help women understand the changes their bodies go through.
Research suggests that more than 90 per cent of women were never taught about the menopause at school, while nearly two-thirds only started looking for information when they began to experience symptoms.
A team from University College London (UCL), with the support of the charities Wellbeing of Women and Sophia Forum have founded The National Menopause Education and Support Programme. Course members will receive up-to-date and evidence-based menopause education from trained healthcare professionals.
It will be led by Professor Joyce Harper, Dr Shema Tariq and Dr Nicky Keay, and has the support of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the British Menopause Society.
Professor Harper told the DailyMail: “Research has shown that women are currently poorly educated about the menopause and often go into it not understanding what to expect. Some menopausal symptoms can cause psychological issues and women may mistake their symptoms for mental health issues or other concerning causes, and this can have a negative effect on their wellbeing.
“We want to ensure that all women get the information they need to manage the changes they experience in this part of their life, in the best way possible.”
Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women, said: “We're thrilled to be part of this exciting new project to improve menopause education, and we welcome the research approach of co-designing with the voices of women affected.
“Every woman deserves access to high-quality information and menopause support, yet as research from Professor Harper shows, too many women haven't been given the knowledge they desperately need and deserve. We hope this work will empower a generation of women to understand the changes to their bodies during menopause and access help to manage their symptoms.”