WOMEN’S
HEALTH

After losing her husband suddenly, Shona deals with the double bombshell of a cancer diagnosis for both her and her mother. We follow her journey through loss, chemotherapy and surgery. Despite the constant adversity, this is the start of something positive in her life.

A hot flush/flash in menopause is a sudden sensation of heat, often rising from the feet to the top of the head. While some women can experience only a mild wave of warmth, others may experience being overwhelmed and will break out in a sweat.

We all have a story, and my story has changed the direction of my life. It all began many years ago, when I met a gorgeous Cook Island man at Training College. We were both 19 at the time. We went out once with a group of others and did not see each other again for another 27 years.

There are at least 34 different signs and symptoms related to menopause. While 20% of women won’t experience any symptoms, or will have mild symptoms, for a large majority going through menopause will have a profound impact on their life.

Entering menopause is a natural process that occurs in women. Menopause is characterised by a significant hormonal change, where ovulation stops and production of oestrogen and progesterone ceases, signalling the end of fertility. With many signs and symptoms, menopause can be a very turbulent journey for women, which is why it’s important to be equipped with all information before we start our 3rd age.