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Kate Dyson

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Kate is a content specialist who is passionate about women's health. She's also mum to three kids, two dogs and unsurprisingly, a lover of wine.

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Glossary

For words you might want to know more

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Targeted movements that strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, which support the uterus, bladder, small intestine, and rectum, and can help with incontinence and support reproductive organs, especially important during and after menopause.

Menopause

The natural decline in reproductive hormones when a woman reaches her 40s or 50s, marked by the end of menstrual cycles and accompanied by symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.

Insomnia

A common sleep disorder characterised by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting restful sleep, often experienced during menopause due to hormonal changes.

"What do you wish you'd known about menopause?"

As the conversation grows around menopause, it can feel like a lot to take in about this phase of our lives. To help you cut through the information out there, we recently asked our community, Jude and Friends, "What do you wish you had known about menopause?" and as ever, their answers were so thorough and candid.

"I wish someone had told me about the emotional roller coaster of menopause" - Janet

"It's not just the hot flashes; it's the mood swings that can take you by surprise. One minute you're laughing, the next you're in tears. I've found that mindfulness meditation and regular exercise have been my best allies in managing these unpredictable shifts."

"That nights would become and endless battle with insomnia" - Angela

"Before menopause, I took a good night's sleep for granted. Now, I understand how crucial sleep hygiene is. Dark, cool rooms and a consistent bedtime have helped, but it's still a challenge. I'd advise any woman approaching menopause to prioritize sleep and maybe even talk to a sleep specialist if problems arise."

"What caught me off guard was the impact of menopause on my bladder" - Maria

Suddenly, I was experiencing urges to go all the time, and it was embarrassing. It's something not many people talk about, but pelvic floor exercises and Jude's Bladder Strength Supplements have helped tremendously. I encourage ladies to discuss these issues openly; there's no need for embarrassment."

- Maria

"How utterly horrible the night sweats would be" - Anne

"... But using a cooling mat in bed really helped to ease the worst of them. I also have a cold flannel in a freezer bag at the side of the bed and use it to give myself a quick wipe down. Lastly, a water bottle with cold water to drink as you might find you are thirsty with sweating. If you are having dryness downstairs, get to docs for help. I use Ovestin cream it has made a big difference."

"What was surprising was the effect of menopause on my skin and hair" - Sam

"Dryness everywhere! I wish I had known to stock up on more than just lightweight pajamas—I needed a good moisturizer and a gentler shampoo. To any woman nearing this phase, pamper your skin and hair. They'll need extra care."

"I wish I'd known to keep a diary for my GP" - Yasmin

"Keep a diary of whenever your body does something different for the GP, it helps give the full picture. For example, my arthritis is worse 2 or 3 days before a period. If you've been on contraception for a long time it can take a while (4yrs in my case) for your body to get back on an even keel. Always keep some kind of sanitary wear at home for when your periods decide to have what may or may not be a last hurrah."

- Anne

"I never expected that menopause could affect my vision" - Jen

"... but I started having trouble reading small print during that time. After a visit to the ophthalmologist, I learned that hormonal changes can affect your eyesight. Now, I always tell my friends to get their eyes checked as they approach menopause. It's better to be proactive!"

Jude’s clinically proven supplements give you better bladder and pelvic floor control, helping you sleep through the night and regain the freedom to live life on your own terms. With just one capsule morning and night, you'll have relief from need-to-go urgency in just 12 weeks.

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