When women turn 50, friends may say, oh, it's just a number, but women know there's more to it than that. A lot of things start to “kick in” around the age 50 for women. Kids might be grown or at least well on their way to independent living. As mothering winds down, the mothering hormones, estrogen and progesterone, are winding down also. The gradual decline in hormone levels can feel like a roller coaster ride, with a surprising tailspin or two just when you thought the ride was over.
Menopause is the midlife passage for women, a time of rediscovering self in a new context. Women pull back as the nurturers, and re-emerge as strong, wise, and even powerful, often becoming leaders in the community or at work. It can be an easy, difficult, or confusing process, and requires patience. It takes time for the new hormone levels to stabilize, usually about three years.
Fortunately, nature has provided a built-in guide, your body. The new sensations and feelings are like a tuning fork that forces your attention inward for guidance. Also on the plus side, there is more information available now than ever before on nutritional products, herbs, and supplements for the menopausal woman.
No matter what people say about older women, menopause is definitely not the endgame. On the contrary, it can usher in new creativity, as well as exciting new perspectives on life. The journey of discovery begins when women ask, who am I now?
Reaching out and connecting with other women is paramount, whether through books or in your community. The following menopausal, midlife experts have books and Web sites with resources for the menopausal journey:
