As the conversation and narrative change regarding menopause, largely in a positive direction, it is also necessary to shed light on misconceptions that are often accepted as truth. Having a sense of what is and is not part of a menopause journey will help to create a better sense of this transition and the effects on the body as well as when it is important to seek medical care. This article will separate fact from fiction regarding menopause

Menopause Starts at 45

Fiction. It is important to remember that menopause is defined at 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. Perimenopause is the time leading up to this time. Symptoms can begin during perimenopause and last after clinical menopause. In Ireland, the average age for menopause is 51.

Menopause Symptoms don’t Require Medical Attention

Fiction. Doctors often report seeing patients experiencing menopause symptoms for years and not telling them about it. While menopause is ‘natural’, experiencing symptoms associated with menopause that are uncomfortable or disrupt your life, should be mentioned to a healthcare professional immediately. There was a previous widely-held notion that people should just ‘get on with it’, this is not only incorrect, but also dangerous. People often question if their symptoms are severe enough to be treated by a doctor, if you have any doubt at all, talk to your GP or gynaecologist.

Menopause Means No Sex

Fiction. People experiencing menopause symptoms sometimes report a lack of sex drive. This is due to the fluctuations in hormones at this time, but this is only temporary. In addition to a lower libido, the drop in oestrogen can also cause less natural lubrication in the vagina which causes discomfort and sometimes pain during sex. Lubricants can be used on a daily basis as well as additionally for sex. Some people actually say they experience an increase in libido and can enjoy sex more after menopause

Menopause Makes You Gain Weight

Fiction. Mostly fiction anyway. When the body’s hormones begin to fluctuate, a person’s metabolism can be affected. Metabolism is the rate in which we turn food into energy or store it in the body, usually as fat. Also, where a person keeps their stored fat can also change during this time. People who normally gain weight in their hips and legs, may see more weight being stored around the belly. This is, however, preventable with the right strategies including talking to your doctor, exercise, and a well-balanced diet. Every body is different and weight gain is not inevitable

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is Dangerous

Anyone who has looked online about HRT will have likely come upon two categories of information. Reading one side of the discussion, it would be a very logical conclusion that hormone therapy is dangerous. When reading the other side, HRT is the most incredible and beneficial medical treatment ever invented. The truth is neither of those and it is important to get accurate, evidence-based information regarding hormone replacement therapy. Speaking to your GP or gynaecologist is the best course of action

Menopause Causes Forgetfulness

Fiction. Menopause does not necessarily cause memory loss or forgetfulness. While some people may experience cognitive changes, these can be attributed to other circumstances in addition to or rather than hormonal shifts. It’s important to note that factors like stress, lack of sleep, and mood changes associated with menopause can impact cognitive function, but menopause itself does not inherently lead to a decline in mental acuity.

People don’t Openly Discuss Menopause

Fiction. Everyone should talk about menopause in the spaces and to the people they feel comfortable doing so. However, the idea that menopause is something that shouldn’t be discussed is rooted to larger societal issues like ageism, misogyny, and reproductive health. There are support groups, advocacy groups, social media pages, podcasts all discussing menopause. This is a new day for menopause and finding support should be accessible to all.