• If you think you’ve reached the menopause, see your doctor about the possibility of HRT. There are menopause clinics in all the large women’s hospitals, and most doctors in private practice have up-to-date knowledge about the menopause.

• Look after your general health.

a     Whether or not you decide to take hormones, have regular general and gynaecological checkups, including a breast check and Pap smear.

b     Eat well. Follow the Australian Dietary Guidelines. You need extra calcium after the menopause. Low-fat dairy foods are an excellent source of calcium. Watch your weight.

с     Exercise is important to maintain
your fitness and figure and to enhance physical and mental well-being. Keeping active also helps to
maintain bone health. Walking and swimming are recommended for older women.

d     Reduce or, better still, stop
smoking.

e     Take care of your skin. Use a sun-screen on exposed skin every day to prevent sun cancer and reduce wrinkling and pigmentation. Moisturizers help to keep skin supple. Appearance is important. Feeling good about how you look boosts confidence and self-esteem.

f     Enjoy yourself! Remember that there’s a lot of life ahead. Expand your interests. Do a course. Join a group. Take up a hobby.

g     If personal problems are upsetting you, talk to someone (friend, counsellor, doctor) about how you
might solve them.

*202/31/5*