Suffering through the hot flashes, weight gain and mood swings that often occur with menopause is not always a laughing matter.  But you will have fun talking about the topic with your friends at Effingham Hospital’s September Girls Night Out.

The conversation will revolve around the serious, yet sometimes comedic, topic of menopause with a lecture by Effingham Family Medicine’s Family Nurse Practitioner Janice Ford entitled, “The Hot Flashes Made Me Do It! (and other things you can blame on Menopause).”  Girls Night Out will be held Sept. 27 from 7-9 p.m. at Effingham Imaging Center, 110 Goshen Rd., Rincon.

Ford will focus on menopause, a natural process that occurs when a woman’s period stops. While all women will experience this process, menopause can sometimes cause discomfort and side-effects.  Ford will explore each side effect and symptom as she shares tips and ideas to help relieve these symptoms and side effects.  Girls Night Out also will explore and answer questions associated with the subject of hormone replacement therapy or HRT.

Menopause is a normal part of life.  Some symptoms of menopause can last for months or years after.  Changing levels of estrogen and progesterone, two female hormones made in ovaries, might lead to these symptoms.  Signs of menopause include: a change in periods, hot flashes, problems with the bladder including holding urine, trouble sleeping and mood changes.

Girls Night Out always features refreshments and gifts.  As a special feature this month, participants will be joined by Chef Nick Mueller. Women in attendance have a chance to spend a little “me time” while learning valuable health information.

No reservations are required to attend. For questions, call 826-1400 or 754-0421.