FEMTECH360 continues to break new ground with its Connect and Consult Webinar Series. In a recent episode, Dr. Rita Singh and Dr. Hema Divakar tackled one of the most pivotal phases in a woman’s life—menopause. This session was particularly focused on empowering women through technological advancements and providing practical solutions to manage menopause effectively.
Understanding Menopause: A Critical Life Phase
Dr. Rita Singh opened the discussion by shedding light on menopause, a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Menopause is diagnosed after 12 months of amenorrhea (no menstrual period) and usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. However, the transition, known as perimenopause, can begin several years before the last menstrual period.
Common Symptoms and Challenges
During the webinar, Dr. Hema Divakar elaborated on the common symptoms associated with menopause, which can vary widely among women. These symptoms include:
- Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of warmth, often most intense over the face, neck, and chest.
- Night Sweats: Severe hot flashes occurring at night that can disrupt sleep.
- Mood Swings: Emotional instability, including irritability, depression, and anxiety.
- Sleep Problems: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.
- Weight Gain: Particularly around the abdomen, due to hormonal changes.
- Joint Pain and Stiffness: Often mistaken for arthritis or other conditions.
The Role of Technology in Managing Menopause
One of the key points discussed was the role of technology in managing menopause. Dr. Rita Singh highlighted the use of apps and digital tools designed to help women track their symptoms and health parameters. For instance, apps like Mimosa can prompt women to log symptoms and provide them with a set of questions to ask their gynecologist, ensuring they get comprehensive care.
Practical Tips for Managing Menopause
Dr. Hema Divakar shared several practical tips to help women manage their menopause symptoms effectively:
- Healthy Diet: Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods high in calcium and vitamin D are crucial to combat the increased risk of osteoporosis.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, including weight-bearing exercises, to maintain bone density and overall health.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-relieving techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises to alleviate mood swings and anxiety.
- Adequate Sleep: Establish a regular sleep routine and create a comfortable sleeping environment to combat insomnia and night sweats.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help manage hot flashes and maintain overall health.
- Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol that can exacerbate symptoms.
The Importance of Medical Consultation
Both doctors emphasized the importance of regular medical check-ups during menopause. Women should not hesitate to seek help for their symptoms, as there are effective treatments available. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and other medications can be prescribed based on individual needs and medical history.
Q&A Session: Addressing Common Concerns
The session concluded with a Q&A segment where participants had the opportunity to ask their most pressing questions. Dr. Rita Singh and Dr. Hema Divakar provided detailed answers, offering further insights into managing menopause and utilizing technology to support women’s health.
The Connect and Consult Webinar Series by FEMTECH360 is dedicated to empowering women with knowledge and resources to navigate various health challenges. The episode featuring Dr. Rita Singh and Dr. Hema Divakar provided invaluable insights into managing menopause through practical tips and technological advancements.
Stay tuned for more informative sessions in our webinar series, and explore FEMTECH 360° for additional resources and support.
