Menopause and COVID-19

Although gyms may be closed and certain parks may be shut down, exercise is not cancelled. Exercise has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the body and can help increase circulation. Exercise can also reduce menopausal symptoms such as sweating, anxiety and hot flashes.

Go out for walks, if you live in a less densely populated area. If you don’t then maintain some form of exercise in the comfort of your own home. Do anything that raises your heart rate, and makes you sweat. Do it for at least one hour, 3-4 times a week.

There are many apps for meditation such as Calm, Sattva and Headspace. Meditation can help reduce stress when performed regularly. You can achieve lower cortisol levels and higher melatonin levels through meditation. Yoga can also help boost your immune system and reduce oxidative stress.

Rates of anxiety and depression with increase during quarantine. The level of uncertainty and fear will likely cause more people to experience mood disturbances. The good news is that there are virtual platforms available that can help you deal with this stress. Menopausal women are at higher risk for anxiety and depression, and should be more watchful of worsening of their moods. There is no reason to stay quiet if you have depression or anxiety.