Updated March 04, 2008

Menopause
What to Expect, How to Cope

by Pat Dougherty, C.N.M., M.S.N., and Joyce Green Pastors, M.S., R.D., C.D.E.

A unique journey
Perhaps the most important thing a perimenopausal woman can do is to listen to and respect her body. Just as each person’s diabetes requires an individualized plan for control, so is each woman’s experience with menopause unique. Because it’s common to experience some changes in blood glucose control as you go through menopause, it helps to maintain a regular schedule of blood glucose monitoring, as well as good exercise and eating habits. Using relaxation techniques to reduce stress and trying to get adequate sleep can help, too. Consult your medical provider if your symptoms are severe and are dramatically affecting your quality of life.

If you are interested in trying hormone therapy or taking other medicines to control your symptoms, talk to your health-care provider about the benefits and risks as they relate to your personal health. This article and "Resources for Readers" can help you to formulate a list of questions or concerns to bring up at your appointment. The goal of balancing diabetes control and menopause symptoms should be to remain strong and vital so you can maximize the quality of your life.

Also in this article:
Resources for Readers

Pat Dougherty is a Certified Nurse Midwife and Nurse Practitioner in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Midlife Health, in the University of Virginia Health System. She is also certified as a Menopause Practitioner by the North American Menopause Society. Joyce Green Pastors is a Diabetes Nutrition Specialist with the Virginia Center for Diabetes Professional Education and an Assistant Professor of Medical Education in Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

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