Menopause is a natural phase of life that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. However, it often comes with symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, brain fog, and other discomforts. Numerous myths surround menopause and its treatments, making it harder to separate fact from fiction. Let’s dive into some common myths and the truths behind them.
Myth #1: Menopause doesn’t happen until you’re “old.”
The average age of menopause in the US is 51-years-old. A woman is considered to be fully in menopause once she experiences 12 months without a menstrual cycle. Perimenopause, however, often begins around age 45 and lasts an average of 7 years. This is the beginning of the decline of estrogen production in the body and when symptoms usually begin to appear.
Myth #2: Menopause is a time to dread.
This should not be the case! It is true that without proper support some women struggle; however, those who have an increased awareness of what is physiologically happening tend to struggle less. This is the first step in achieving successful support.
Myth #3: Hot flashes are the main symptom of menopause.
While it is true that hot flashes have the reputation as being the hallmark of menopause, there are many other symptoms that can also appear. During perimenopause, women can experience worsening PMS, longer or shorter cycles, insomnia, increased anxiety, and mood swings. These symptoms are linked to declining estrogen, and those who are not attuned to this fact may become more anxious and confused as to what is happening to their bodies.
At the onset of menopause, hot flashes and night sweats often intensify. What may be surprising are the other symptoms that may also present as well. Brain fog and memory issues might not be expected symptoms, but they are commonly reported. Chronic urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, lack of libido, joint pain, feelings of loss of self, irritability, heart palpitations, weight gain, extreme fatigue, and tinnitus may also occur. The more education women have on how perimenopause and menopause can present, the faster they can treat the root issue, reducing the severity of those unexpected symptoms.
Myth #4: There are few options for the treatment of these symptoms, and women should just push through.
Wrong. When we contextualize the fact that a woman might be in this transition for 8 years, it’s ridiculous to assume they should just suffer through it. Many are supporting the launch of adult children, experiencing the height of their careers, and/or caring for aging parents during this phase of life. Balancing these demands with a changing physical and mental landscape can be overwhelming. Hormone replacement therapy has gained popularity as a method for mitigating symptoms, but some women may be unsure about beginning this treatment or have health histories which prohibit their candidacy. A lesser known, but VERY effective treatment option is acupuncture and Chinese herbs. There is extensive research that supports the efficacy of acupuncture as a natural approach to balancing hormones. Acupuncturists often recommend diet and lifestyle changes that can accelerate progress.
Myth #5: The physical, mental, and emotional changes that occur during menopause are here to stay.
NOT TRUE! After a woman has gone 12 months without a cycle, her symptoms usually begin to diminish. At this time, many women report INCREASED energy and their hormones begin to level out. Research shows that many women are happier than ever in the years between 50 and 70, reporting freedom, energy, clarity, self-esteem, and optimism as defining characteristics of this period.
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