Fears of Aging During Menopause

Since you’ve passed 40, the blaze of candles on your birthday cake each year may set your heart pitter-pattering. Perhaps you’re afraid the fire department will show up in full regalia with water hoses and fire extinguishers.

Age and menopause sure changes things. The reflecting image in the mirror doesn’t look anything like the girl you remember. Instead, she’s got gray hair, wrinkles, and a lot of fears. Age and menopause seem to be doing a number on you.

If you’re battling fears as you age your way through menopause, read on. But don’t stop half way through. Read onward for how to achieve victory over those fears:

Fear #1: Turning into the ugly duckling.

You dreamed of being a princess as a girl, but now you’re afraid you’ll look more like a hag with a wart on your nose. Your skin is drying out, wrinkles are appearing, and you have acne again.

Fear #2: Losing all your hair.

As your hair turns gray, it’s also falling out. You’re losing more in the shower and every time you brush your hair. You’re starting to fear baldness is in your near future.

Fear #3: Rivaling the Goodyear Blimp.

While menopause is changing the skin on your face, it’s also adding pounds around the middle. You’re gaining weight more easily than ever and it’s harder than ever to lose it. Your metabolism has changed and it’s showing in all the wrong places.

Fear #4: Not being sexy any more.

With all the changes to your looks and weight, you’re afraid of losing your princess tiara. You’re concerned that since you don’t look as glamorous as you once did, you won’t be attractive – causing intimacy to come to an end.

4 Ways to Beat Your Fears

You don’t have to give in to your fears or let them control you during menopause. You can take steps to counteract the effects of aging and menopause on your fairy tale.

1. Treat your skin properly.

What worked for your skin in your 20’s and 30’s may not work now. Change your skin care routine to one that’s appropriate for your age and phase of menopause.

2. Be gentle with your hair.

Menopause and lack of hormones can cause hair loss, so make some changes to your hair care routine. Talk to your hair dresser, doctor, and dermatologist about the best hair care products and whether you should consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

3. Change your eating and exercise habits.

The same ole diet and exercise program aren’t likely to work as well once you reach menopause and start adding those candles to your cake. Eat healthier, cut out some calories, and add more steps in to your day. A healthier lifestyle can help you drop pounds and add a glow to your skin.

4. Smile and pick up your crown.

Just because you’re aging doesn’t mean you are not a lovely person, inside and out. Intimacy doesn’t have to end just because you don’t look 20 any more. If it’ll make you feel better, get a make-over and buy some new clothes that are flattering to the new you. But no matter what, embrace who you are – you’re lovely inside and out.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.  Reprinted with permission: Fears of Aging During Menopause