Latest news with #menopause
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Melissa Grelo felt like she was 'having a heart attack' before perimenopause diagnosis: 'That was very terrifying'
Melissa Grelo is a self-described rebel with a cause: empowering women to take control of their health. As the co-host of the daytime talk show The Social, the 47-year-old has become a pseudo-best friend for women who need someone to guide them — and celebrate them — during menopause. Through her work on her podcast, "Aging Powerfully with Melissa Grelo," the Toronto native has spoken to experts on how to navigate the physical and mental challenges of perimenopause and menopause and how women can embrace the next chapter of their lives. Yahoo Canada spoke to Grelo about menopause, staying fit and more. Menopause has undergone a rebrand of sorts. While it's hard to pinpoint where and when the shift occurred, in recent years more women — specifically women in the public eye like Grelo — have become more vocal about the physical, emotional and mental impacts of menopause. "There's a lot of relief...," Grelo said. "I think a lot of us are in a similar position where, because of a lack of education in general about women's health and specifically this time in our lives it's so shrouded in mystery." Previous generations may have felt as though talking about menopause was taboo, but Grelo said there's been a collective sigh from women who felt alone or like control of their bodies was slipping through their fingers. "As women, we can gaslight ourselves really well," she said. "It's just this idea of being able to say, 'It's not just me, it's not just in my head and I feel seen.'"However, she says the relief is only temporary. As women understand the weight of perimenopause and menopause, there becomes outrage at the lack of education and resources readily available. Young women are no strangers to feeling as though the Canadian healthcare system hasn't always had their best interest at heart. But as they women enter their 40s, 50s and 60s, they're presented with new hurdles to navigate and yet another fight to take on. "I think anger is good," she said. "Anger will help facilitate change and awareness." Grelo's education about menopause began in her early 40s when she began having unexplainable heart palpitations. "That was very terrifying... .I wish someone along the way could have said, 'You know, given your age, this could be perimenopause,'" she said. "...I just thought, I'm a fit person, I work out all the time. Why do I feel like I'm having a heart attack and not getting an answer?" She decided to take matters into her own hands and meet with healthcare practitioners who told her the heart palpitations and some of her other symptoms could be due to perimenopause. Once she had more information, she was able to determine that her anxiety was most likely tied to her body changing. I was riddled with panic attacks in the makeup room every morningMelissa Grelo Although she had struggled with anxiety in her early 20s, she noticed a significant increase in her late 30s after she had her daughter. She was living with catastrophic feeling and "paralyzing anxiety" that prevented her from doing certain things out of fear she would have a panic attack. "It was debilitating," she explained. Grelo said that the anxiety rarely impacted her while she was filming The Social. She could put on a brave face in front of the camera, but behind the scenes it was a different story. "I was riddled with panic attacks in the makeup room every morning," she recalled. "...There was only one time, maybe two times that I was on commercial break and I would look over and say to Lainey [Elaine Lui] 'If I give you a face, just take over and throw it to a break.' That was our shorthand if I thought on a commercial break, 'Am I going to have a panic attack?'" Grelo's passion for fitness evolved during perimenopause. She's always loved to work out and move her body, but something needed to change as she entered her late 40s. Enter: strength training. "Building strength — there's a physical part of it and there's a mental part of it and I love both," she said. "I get such a high when I look at the muscle that I'm building. I just feel badass about it. I think that's a physical embodiment of the transformation that is also happening just as a result of getting older." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melissa Grelo (@melissagrelo) In a world where the "ideal body" is always shifting and just out of our grasp, Grelo's forging ahead on a new path. Strength training, in addition to cardio and stretching, has impacted more than just her body composition. "I want to be physically powerful," she said. "It translates to how I also move through the world in general." Women may feel as though there's a learning curve to menopause, but aging does come with it's fair share of benefits. For Grelo, her late 40s have liberated her from the fear of disappointing others. "I'm a recovering people pleaser," she said. "I also do really like to work collaboratively. I think when you're in a group situation, which I am in my job… you hope and wish that you're going to like everybody and that everybody likes you…" Grelo said she no longer feels the same desire to jump in and try to "fix" things when every an issue arises. "Not everything deserves a reaction," she said. "As women, we want to fix. When there's awkward silences we always want to talk and we always want to make people more comfortable … Over time that behaviour starts to go away because you realize [you should] say less, do more, react less." At certain stages and ages in your life, there are consequences if you are not likeable as a womanMelissa Grelo Now, Grelo is able to put the old adage of "don't take things personally" into practice and can distance herself from feelings of rejection. Sometimes, that confidence or evolved way of thinking may be translated by others as off-putting. "At certain stages and ages in your life, there are consequences if you are not likeable as a woman," she said. "I'm not trying to say that we all have to become ice queens. What I'm saying is, I think to be less reactive and have less of your day be determined by the moods of others around you —that's a game changer." As a mom, Grelo said she's focused on helping her 11-year-old daughter preserve her confidence, which i difficult to do in a society that profits off of women's insecurities. "Our culture does not reward rebellious girls who colour outside the lines and don't behave as expected," she said. "That's very hard and yet I think that this what's responsible for our dip in confidence for a huge chunk of our life. There's a reason why happiness and confidence rebound in our 50s, because it's our 'I don't give a f—k era'… I don't know why we have to lose it in order to regain it." Grelo points out that there's a resurgence of admiration for women in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond who speak their mind, wear whatever they like and live however they choose. It's the years where women's likability or desirability impacts a woman's relationships and opportunities; women are expected to tow the line, for fear of being left behind. As a parent, Grelo wants to be open with her daughter about life, sexuality, health and won't shy away from topics like feminism and the patriarchy. "I know a lot of parents are not prepared for that kind of conversation for different reasons, but I'm a rebel. I'm a rabble rouser, and more so the older I get," she said. "I think that's the beauty of having children if you're an older woman [compared to] when you're younger. We don't have the energy of the young.... What I do have is less f—ks to give, and that's the energy I'm trying to raise my daughter with."
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Melissa Grelo felt like she was 'having a heart attack' before perimenopause diagnosis: 'That was very terrifying'
Melissa Grelo is a self-described rebel with a cause: empowering women to take control of their health. As the co-host of the daytime talk show The Social, the 47-year-old has become a pseudo-best friend for women who need someone to guide them — and celebrate them — during menopause. Through her work on her podcast, "Aging Powerfully with Melissa Grelo," the Toronto native has spoken to experts on how to navigate the physical and mental challenges of perimenopause and menopause and how women can embrace the next chapter of their lives. Yahoo Canada spoke to Grelo about menopause, staying fit and more. Menopause has undergone a rebrand of sorts. While it's hard to pinpoint where and when the shift occurred, in recent years more women — specifically women in the public eye like Grelo — have become more vocal about the physical, emotional and mental impacts of menopause. "There's a lot of relief...," Grelo said. "I think a lot of us are in a similar position where, because of a lack of education in general about women's health and specifically this time in our lives it's so shrouded in mystery." Previous generations may have felt as though talking about menopause was taboo, but Grelo said there's been a collective sigh from women who felt alone or like control of their bodies was slipping through their fingers. "As women, we can gaslight ourselves really well," she said. "It's just this idea of being able to say, 'It's not just me, it's not just in my head and I feel seen.'"However, she says the relief is only temporary. As women understand the weight of perimenopause and menopause, there becomes outrage at the lack of education and resources readily available. Young women are no strangers to feeling as though the Canadian healthcare system hasn't always had their best interest at heart. But as they women enter their 40s, 50s and 60s, they're presented with new hurdles to navigate and yet another fight to take on. "I think anger is good," she said. "Anger will help facilitate change and awareness." Grelo's education about menopause began in her early 40s when she began having unexplainable heart palpitations. "That was very terrifying... .I wish someone along the way could have said, 'You know, given your age, this could be perimenopause,'" she said. "...I just thought, I'm a fit person, I work out all the time. Why do I feel like I'm having a heart attack and not getting an answer?" She decided to take matters into her own hands and meet with healthcare practitioners who told her the heart palpitations and some of her other symptoms could be due to perimenopause. Once she had more information, she was able to determine that her anxiety was most likely tied to her body changing. I was riddled with panic attacks in the makeup room every morningMelissa Grelo Although she had struggled with anxiety in her early 20s, she noticed a significant increase in her late 30s after she had her daughter. She was living with catastrophic feeling and "paralyzing anxiety" that prevented her from doing certain things out of fear she would have a panic attack. "It was debilitating," she explained. Grelo said that the anxiety rarely impacted her while she was filming The Social. She could put on a brave face in front of the camera, but behind the scenes it was a different story. "I was riddled with panic attacks in the makeup room every morning," she recalled. "...There was only one time, maybe two times that I was on commercial break and I would look over and say to Lainey [Elaine Lui] 'If I give you a face, just take over and throw it to a break.' That was our shorthand if I thought on a commercial break, 'Am I going to have a panic attack?'" Grelo's passion for fitness evolved during perimenopause. She's always loved to work out and move her body, but something needed to change as she entered her late 40s. Enter: strength training. "Building strength — there's a physical part of it and there's a mental part of it and I love both," she said. "I get such a high when I look at the muscle that I'm building. I just feel badass about it. I think that's a physical embodiment of the transformation that is also happening just as a result of getting older." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melissa Grelo (@melissagrelo) In a world where the "ideal body" is always shifting and just out of our grasp, Grelo's forging ahead on a new path. Strength training, in addition to cardio and stretching, has impacted more than just her body composition. "I want to be physically powerful," she said. "It translates to how I also move through the world in general." Women may feel as though there's a learning curve to menopause, but aging does come with it's fair share of benefits. For Grelo, her late 40s have liberated her from the fear of disappointing others. "I'm a recovering people pleaser," she said. "I also do really like to work collaboratively. I think when you're in a group situation, which I am in my job… you hope and wish that you're going to like everybody and that everybody likes you…" Grelo said she no longer feels the same desire to jump in and try to "fix" things when every an issue arises. "Not everything deserves a reaction," she said. "As women, we want to fix. When there's awkward silences we always want to talk and we always want to make people more comfortable … Over time that behaviour starts to go away because you realize [you should] say less, do more, react less." At certain stages and ages in your life, there are consequences if you are not likeable as a womanMelissa Grelo Now, Grelo is able to put the old adage of "don't take things personally" into practice and can distance herself from feelings of rejection. Sometimes, that confidence or evolved way of thinking may be translated by others as off-putting. "At certain stages and ages in your life, there are consequences if you are not likeable as a woman," she said. "I'm not trying to say that we all have to become ice queens. What I'm saying is, I think to be less reactive and have less of your day be determined by the moods of others around you —that's a game changer." As a mom, Grelo said she's focused on helping her 11-year-old daughter preserve her confidence, which i difficult to do in a society that profits off of women's insecurities. "Our culture does not reward rebellious girls who colour outside the lines and don't behave as expected," she said. "That's very hard and yet I think that this what's responsible for our dip in confidence for a huge chunk of our life. There's a reason why happiness and confidence rebound in our 50s, because it's our 'I don't give a f—k era'… I don't know why we have to lose it in order to regain it." Grelo points out that there's a resurgence of admiration for women in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond who speak their mind, wear whatever they like and live however they choose. It's the years where women's likability or desirability impacts a woman's relationships and opportunities; women are expected to tow the line, for fear of being left behind. As a parent, Grelo wants to be open with her daughter about life, sexuality, health and won't shy away from topics like feminism and the patriarchy. "I know a lot of parents are not prepared for that kind of conversation for different reasons, but I'm a rebel. I'm a rabble rouser, and more so the older I get," she said. "I think that's the beauty of having children if you're an older woman [compared to] when you're younger. We don't have the energy of the young.... What I do have is less f—ks to give, and that's the energy I'm trying to raise my daughter with."
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Elle Macpherson, 61, puts on a very leggy display in stunning photoshoot as she gets candid on the menopause
Elle Macpherson showed why she earned the nickname 'The Body' in her latest photoshoot for ELLE Spain. The model, 61, put on a leggy display as she posed in an emerald mini dress with a high collar and tasselled detail. In another look, the Australian beauty sported a grey mini skirt alongwith a dark brown cloak and a pair of gladiator sandals. Styling her blonde locks into loose curls, she completed her look with a black handbag and a green headband. The model posed for three different covers for the July issue; one in black jeans and a faux fur coat, another in a denim shirt and another in a floral mini dress. In another look, the Australian beauty sported a grey mini skirt alongwith a dark brown cloak and a pair of gladiator sandals In her interview, Elle gave her thoughts on the menopause, saying: 'I prefer to see it as a rebirth: a process to be celebrated, not feared or silenced.' The model, who got her start in the industry in her late teens, also reflected on the length of her career. 'I never imagined that my professional career would span 43 years. And there's more to come,' she said. Elsewhere, she revealed giving up alcohol over two decades ago was a pivotal decision: 'Living without escapes or shortcuts has been a profound experience of faith and hope.' Elle has previously said she has never been bothered by ageing, and is simply proud that she has lived through 'amazing stages of fashion and fitness'. Speaking on This Morning, she said: 'I haven't always looked after my skin. I spent far too much time in the sun. I was born in the 60s, when lying out in the sun with baby oil was fashionable. 'But I haven't done any plastic surgery, not that I have any judgement - it just hasn't been my choice. I like a natural looking face.' Despite carving a stellar modelling career in the 1980s, Elle added that she is glad her body had changed over the years, as its proof of the life she has lived - having become a mother to sons Flynn and Aurelius since. She said: 'I try and do some exercise every day, but thank goodness I don't have the same body as in my 20s. 'This body has birthed two incredible boys and lived through amazing stages of fashion and fitness. There have been many changes and I'm grateful to be able to evolve over time. I'm open to change and evolving. These are tangible assets to my life.' While she is not fazed by ageing, Elle still tries to keep as healthy as possible - and lauded both the physical and mental benefits of going plant-based. She explained: 'When I turned 50 I realised things I did in my 20s weren't working anymore. I follow a plant-based alkaline diet, focusing on a healthy, whole food. 'I take green powder and protein powder every day, and I drink three litres of water a day. 'Being Australian, the outdoors has always been important to me. So I like to get out, hike, walk the dogs, swim laps and I do yoga in the evening. There's been such a change not just in my body, but my wellbeing.' Her nickname, Elle 'The Body' MacPherson, was coined in 1989 after she appeared on five covers of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
The Independent
a day ago
- Health
- The Independent
Struggling with UTIs after menopause? Experts say this can make a difference
After menopause, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be more frequent, yet most Canadian women (82 per cent in a recent survey) don't realise the two are associated. At the Sex, Gender and Women's Health Research Hub, our team's advocacy aims to increase awareness and highlight proven strategies to help prevent UTIs for women later in life. Why are UTIs more common after menopause? The main culprit for increased UTIs in menopausal women is the drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary tract tissue health. As estrogen declines, the lining of the urethra — the tube through which urine flows out of the body — becomes thinner and more fragile. Also, there are fewer infection-fighting blood cells in the urinary tract, and mucosal immunity — the specialised immune defences present at the mucosal surfaces lining the urinary tract that include physical and chemical barriers, cellular receptors and antibodies — is reduced. This weakens the local immune response, making it easier for bacteria to cause infections. Additionally, changes in vaginal flora — the bacteria that naturally protect against infections — results in the urinary tract being vulnerable. Other factors can contribute to UTI risk at this stage of life, too. Women whose bladder muscles have weakened with age, or who have developed pelvic organ prolapse, can experience incomplete bladder emptying. This leads to urine retention and an increased chance of bacterial growth. Similarly, if women experience urinary incontinence, the leakage and moisture on incontinence pads or underwear can create an environment where bacteria thrive. And while sexual activity itself does not directly cause UTIs, it can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Signs of a UTI Bacteria in the urine without symptoms are called asymptomatic bacteriuria. It is not a UTI and should not be treated; a UTI is only diagnosed when bacteria and symptoms are both present. The most obvious symptoms include: A new, strong, persistent urge to urinate; A burning sensation while urinating; Frequent urination in small amounts; Pelvic discomfort or pressure. In severe cases, UTIs can lead to kidney infections, so when symptoms include fever, chills and back pain, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. For women in their 80s or older, or sometimes younger women who are living with medical conditions such as dementia, urinary tract infections can manifest as behavioural changes such as confusion, withdrawal or reduced appetite. However, new-onset delirium should always be investigated by a medical team rather than assumed to be a UTI. Evidence-based strategies to prevent UTIs Several medical and lifestyle interventions can make a significant difference: 1. Vaginal estrogen therapy One of the most effective ways to prevent recurrent UTIs in postmenopausal women is vaginal estrogen therapy, which delivers small doses of estrogen directly to the vaginal tissues through creams, tablets or rings. Studies have shown that vaginal estrogen can restore the natural protective barrier of the urinary tract, reducing UTI risk significantly. It can be used by breast cancer survivors as it does not have the same risks associated with menopause hormone therapy (MHT). 2. Non-antibiotic prevention Methenamine hippurate (one gram orally, twice a day) is effective in reducing UTIs by creating an environment that prevents bacterial growth. In Canada, women need to obtain this medication from a compounding pharmacy. 3. Low-dose antibiotic Doctors may prescribe low-dose antibiotics – about half the standard dose – for several months. If sexual activity is a trigger for UTIs, antibiotics can be used episodically after sex. However, antibiotics can cause side effects and create antibiotic-resistant bacteria. 4. Diet supplements Scientific evidence on consuming cranberry-based products to prevent UTIs is mixed. Some studies suggest that certain compounds in cranberries (proanthocyanidins, or PACs) prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder lining, while others show no benefit. If trying these products, women should choose brands with high concentrations of PACs, the active ingredient. Similarly, probiotics, especially those containing Lactobacillus strains, may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, which in turn can lower UTI risk. However, research is still evolving. 5. Hygiene and lifestyle habits Though there is limited evidence, simple everyday habits may help in preventing UTIs: Staying hydrated – Drinking water helps to flush bacteria from the urinary tract. For women who drink a low volume of fluids each day (less than 1.5 litres), increasing water intake may help. Urinating regularly – Avoid holding urine for long periods and aim to void every three to four hours during the day. Urinating after sex – This helps clear bacteria introduced during intercourse. Choosing breathable underwear – Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes reduce the buildup of moisture, which in turn reduces bacterial growth. More innovations on the horizon Vaccines are one of the most promising developments for preventing recurrent UTIs. In one early trial, overall recurrences decreased by 75 per cent for women given an oral vaccine, with no major side effects reported. Trials are currently underway in Canada, and researchers hope vaccines will provide a more effective and long-term solution. When to see a doctor Any woman who is experiencing frequent UTIs — defined as two infections in six months or three in a year — in menopause should talk to their doctor or primary care provider. Together, they can determine the best preventive targeted strategies. Knowledge is power, and there is more information available today than ever before. UTIs are not an inevitable part of ageing. With the right combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes, women can reduce postmenopausal risk. Erin A. Brennand is a Gynecologist & Associate Professor in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc is a Professor and Head in the Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary. Pauline McDonagh Hull is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary.
The Independent
2 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Pelvic floor dysfunction affects half of women – and there's an unexpected cause
Did you know that around one in two women in the UK will experience symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction at some point in their lives? And for women who engage in high-intensity exercise, that figure rises to 63 per cent. The female pelvic floor is a remarkable yet often overlooked structure: a complex 'hammock' of muscles and ligaments that stretches from the front of the pelvis to the tailbone. These muscles support the bladder, bowel and uterus, wrap around the openings of the urethra, vagina and anus and work in sync with your diaphragm, abdominal and back muscles to maintain posture, continence and core stability. It's not an exaggeration to say your pelvic floor is the foundation of your body's core. Throughout a woman's life, various events can challenge the pelvic floor. Pregnancy, for example, increases the weight of the uterus, placing added pressure on these muscles. The growing baby can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch and separate, naturally increasing the load on the pelvic floor. Childbirth, particularly vaginal delivery, may result in perineal trauma, directly injuring pelvic floor tissues. However, contrary to popular belief, pelvic floor problems aren't only caused by pregnancy and childbirth. In fact, research shows that intense physical activity, even in women who have never been pregnant or given birth, can contribute to dysfunction. Exercise is essential for overall health and is often recommended to ease symptoms of menopause and menstruation. But one side effect that's not talked about enough is the effect that repeated strain, such as heavy lifting or high impact movement, can have on the pelvic floor. The increased intra-abdominal pressure during these activities can gradually weaken the pelvic floor muscles, especially if they're not trained to cope. Pelvic floor dysfunction often results when these muscles aren't strong enough to match the workload demanded of them, whether from daily life, exercise, or other core muscles. And it's a growing issue, affecting more women than ever before. Common symptoms include leaking urine or faeces when coughing, sneezing or exercising, a dragging or heavy sensation in the lower abdomen or vaginal area, painful sex, changes in bowel habits, visible bulging in the vaginal area (a sign of prolapse). The emotional toll can also be significant, leading to embarrassment, anxiety, low confidence and a reluctance to stay active – all of which affect quality of life. Prevention The good news? Help is available and, better yet, pelvic floor dysfunction is often preventable. If you're experiencing symptoms, speak to your GP. You may be referred to a women's health physiotherapist, available through both the NHS and private services. But whether you're managing symptoms or hoping to avoid them in the first place, there are practical steps you can take: Stay active and maintain a healthy weight Drink enough water to encourage healthy bladder function Go to the toilet only when your body signals the need; avoid going 'just in case' Prevent constipation through a high-fibre diet and good bowel habits Don't hold your breath when lifting or exercising Most importantly, build strength with regular pelvic floor exercises. Here's how to do a basic pelvic floor contraction: Imagine you're trying to stop yourself passing wind – squeeze and lift the muscles around your back passage. Then, imagine stopping the flow of urine mid-stream – engage those muscles too. Now, lift both sets of muscles upwards inside your body, as if pulling them into the vagina. Hold the contraction for a few seconds, then fully relax. Repeat. If you're just starting, it may be easier to practise while sitting. With time and consistency, you'll be able to hold contractions for longer and incorporate them into your daily routine, like brushing your teeth or waiting for the kettle to boil. Like any muscle, the pelvic floor gets stronger with training, making it more resilient to strain from childbirth, ageing, or strenuous activity. Research shows that a well-conditioned pelvic floor recovers faster from injury. So be proud of your pelvic floor. Support it, strengthen it – and don't forget to do those squeezes.
