As part of the normal aging process, women undergo many biologic changes that affect their reproductive system and well-being. This is a spectrum that starts with puberty transitions though peri-menopause and ends in menopause.
Patuma Banda, like most Malawian women, was a farmer. Her husband made a small income with his bicycle taxi. In order to feed her family, she grew corn and cassava on the small plot of land left by her father.
What is constipation?
Constipation is a very common complaint. It affects up to 15% of all adults. It is more common as we age, affecting up to 30% of all adults over the age of 60. This condition can mean something different to everyone. However, these are some of the most common symptoms.
As we get older, certain hormone levels in our bodies start decreasing. Women usually enter menopause between 45 to 55 years old when our ovaries stop making eggs. At this point, we stop having menstrual periods and the level of estrogen in our bodies drops.
