Mood Swings
Once again, a lack of oestrogen is the culprit behind extreme mood swings. Most menopausal women report that they feel depressed and angry most of the time and a small thing may trigger an extreme reaction.

Reduced Sexual Appetite
During perimenopause, most women start losing their sexual appetite. Due to reduction in levels of oestrogen, women find sex less and less enjoyable.

Some women feel undesirable as they develop wrinkles and their breasts lose firmness due to lack of collagen. Women also have a mental block against sex in their 'senior' years, which could be the psychological reason behind lack of sexual appetite.

Possible Effects of Menopause
Due to lack of the female hormone, oestrogen, menopause may put women at a risk to a number of major diseases like;

Cancer i.e: Ovarian, Uterine or Breast Cancer
Hypertension and heart trouble
Osteoporosis or brittle bones

You may also experience sexual discomfort due to reduced vaginal lubrication.

Coping with Menopause

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Women under HRT are given supplements of oestrogen, the female hormone. It is a controversial procedure, because it is said to trigger breast and other types of cancer among women.

Regular Medical Check-ups
It is important to check for blood pressure problems, breast or ovarian cancer, osteoporosis as well as vaginal and urinary infections.

Sometimes urinary and bladder infections may lead to cystitis (a bladder infection) which may damage the internal organs. In such cases, ask a gynaecologist about available treatment options.

Rejuvenating Sex Life
Women can treat their new freedom from menstruation as a boon and indulge in sex. Getting intimate with your partner will definitely help rediscover your sex life after 50. If intercourse becomes painful due to vaginal dryness, try external lubricants.

Calcium Supplements
Extra calcium after menopause will strengthen the bones and will help fight osteoporosis. Taking calcium supplements and eating calcium-rich food like milk, cheese, curd, green leafy vegetables and fruits will also be beneficial.