Why nationwide Poll Reveals Menopause Poses Challenge For Female Executives

Menopause is a normal stage of life in a woman's aging process when the ovaries stop producing estrogen. The procedure can occur naturally or may be the result of surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. As the main estrogen is responsible for developing and maintaining a woman's reproductive system, reduced levels can cause symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes,  dryness and mood swings. These symptoms can severely affect daily sleep, productivity at work and at home, relationships and community activities. The results of the Harris Interactive National Survey, conducted among members of the National Association for Female Executives (NAFE), found that study participants over the age of 35 with menopause also experience difficulty sleeping or insomnia, an unexpected symptom that makes it even more difficult to cope with. " and change. " Women reported that insomnia was a symptom of menopause, with 72 percent of participants experiencing it (at least once a week) and 59 percent losing an average of three hours or more each night. “Insomnia is very common in women with vasomotor symptoms of menopause. Most of the women I treat are overworked, family and home responsibilities and can't afford to lose sleep, which can make them feel unproductive during the day, ”said James A. Simon, MD, CCD, Health Professor, George Washington. University, Washington, DC “It is important for women with nightmares to discuss their treatment plans with their healthcare provider so that they can decide what to choose.” Thirty-one percent of women surveyed said that the symptoms of menopause were a problem in their love life and 28 percent said that they had problems with their overall emotional well-being. "Women in charge and trained are successful in finding solutions, whether at work, at home or in their personal lives," said Betty Spence, Ph.D., president of NAFE. “When it comes to health care, women need accurate information, which is not always readily available. NAFE conducted the study on the symptoms of menopause in order to encourage open discussion of a topic that has long been considered unwelcome, as well as to encourage women to talk to their doctors and find solutions that work for them. ” The study found that 88 percent of women with insomnia associated with menopause reported that they were very tired during the day, 62 percent said that they were very upset and 44 percent said that they could not do their job. "Even compared to one year ago, we now have more information about the benefits and risks associated with hormone therapy," added Dr. Simon. "Evidence suggests that short-term use of estrogen therapy is a safe and effective method for women with debilitating symptoms such as fever and night sweats." The view of Drs. Simon is hailed by a number of professional organizations, including the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), which recommend hormone therapy to treat menopause symptoms in very short doses. “I was experiencing 'menstrual cramps' — sleep disturbances, hot flashes, mood swings — that affected all aspects of my life. Symptoms were very stressful at work, especially since I was often the only woman in the room, ”said Susan Brown, a lawyer based in Washington, D.C., a NAFE member and mother of three. “My doctor and I decided what treatment I needed to get back on track. I did not allow the signs of menopause to hold me back. ” If you experience symptoms such as sweating day and night, you should discuss them with your doctor. There may be new treatment options that can help alleviate your symptoms. As with all prescription drugs, you should always consult a physician before starting any treatment program