Five tips to navigate the menopause transition

Dr. Michelle Jacobson, MD, FRCSC, is the Corporate Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at William Osler Health System (Osler) and a renowned menopause specialist. She is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Toronto. Dr. Jacobson is the author of several Canadian clinical guidelines and co-chaired the Ontario quality standards focused on menopause management.

Menopause is a normal stage of life, but the transition can bring a wide range of physical and emotional changes. Symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disruption, mood changes and the end of your periods. Osler's Dr. Jacobson shares five tips to help navigate the menopause with greater confidence.

Know the symptoms

During perimenopause – the time before menopause when the body starts to change – signs can start while you still have periods. Periods may become irregular, and you may also start having hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping or mood changes.

Don't feel like you have to suffer through symptoms

If symptoms make it hard to sleep, work or enjoy life, talk to your health care provider. They can share and explain the treatment options and support that are available to you.

Take care of your whole body

Menopause is a good time to care for your whole body. Stay active, eat healthy foods, limit alcohol and tobacco use, and check your blood pressure and cholesterol. These steps can help you stay healthy as you get older.

Be cautious about quick fixes and online claims

There is a lot of advice about menopause online. Some of it may not be true. Be careful with products that promise to fix your hormones or make all menopause symptoms go away. Talk to your health care provider before trying a new product or supplement.

Make a personalized plan with your health care provider

Menopause is different for everyone. Your symptoms, health history and personal preferences should guide the care and treatment options that are right for you.