Why education and information is key to Menopause
Menopause is the one universal female experience.
If you were born with ovaries, you will be menopausal.
You may or may not experience pregnancy, you may or may not have fibroids, you may or may not have a lot of things that primarily effect women, but menopausal - I guarantee you, you will be.
Every October, Menopause Awareness Month brings much-needed attention to an often misunderstood phase of life that affects millions of those born female worldwide. (Although as you know, I bang that drum all year round.
Despite the fact that over half of the population will experience menopause at some point, it remains a topic still clouded by stigma, misinformation, confusion and silence.
For many, the lack of awareness and misinformation leads to unnecessary suffering, both physically and emotionally. We REALLY need to change that. Absolutely no-one should have to ‘suck it up’ and get on with it, or even suffer through it - NO-ONE!!
Menopause is much more than the end of a woman’s reproductive years; it’s a significant transition that can profoundly impact physical health, mental well-being and even personal identity. As we approach this phase, our bodies undergo significant hormonal shifts, most notably a decrease in oestrogen and progesterone levels. These changes can trigger a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety, mood swings, fatigue, memory issues, aching joints and many more.
While a lot of these symptoms are common, the degree to which they affect people can be uniquely different.
One of the biggest challenges people face during menopause is a lack of education and understanding about what is happening to their bodies.
Without proper knowledge, symptoms can feel overwhelming, leading to frustration and a sense of isolation. This means that many struggle to manage their symptoms at work, in social settings, and in their personal lives, without realising there are many solutions available.
This is why Menopause Awareness Month is so critical — it sheds light on the realities of menopause and opens the door to conversations that can help prevent anyone from having to ‘suffer’ through it.
A major goal of Menopause Awareness Month is to dispel the myths and misinformation surrounding menopause. Too often, we are led to believe that menopause is just something we have to “get through,” and that symptoms are simply a part of aging. This mindset can prevent so many people from seeking the help they need and deserve.
The truth is that menopause is not something to endure in silence. With proper education and the right support, proactive steps can be taken to manage symptoms, dramatically improve quality of life and protect long term health.
‘..Knowledge is power…’. Sir Francis Bacon
By learning more about menopause, we can make informed decisions about how best to handle symptoms. There are a variety of treatment options available, from holistic options such as lifestyle changes like diet (which can have a huge impact) and exercise to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and other medical interventions.
Each persons experience is unique, and what works for one may not be helpful for someone else for, but having knowledge of the options is the first step in finding relief.
Beyond physical symptoms…
Menopause can take a significant toll on mental health. Mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of sadness are very common, and without proper understanding and support, these emotions can feel confusing, frightening and even isolating. Raising awareness about the emotional side of menopause encourages us to seek help and find healthy ways to cope. It also helps others — partners, family members, employers, and society as a whole — better understand what we are going through, hopefully fostering more empathy and support.
Menopause Awareness Month is not just about people who are currently experiencing menopause; it’s also about educating younger generations to prepare for the future.
By normalising conversations around menopause now, we can ensure that the menopausal folks of tomorrow are better equipped to navigate this life stage with confidence and dignity.
In short, the importance of educating people about menopause cannot be overstated. Awareness helps to break down the stigma, encourages people to seek the help they deserve and fosters a more supportive environment for everyone affected.
I have said so many times in my own education process “I wish I had know that at the time” and through this process I hope that no-one else says these words.
So this October, let’s come together to raise awareness, share knowledge, and ensure that no one ever has to suffer in silence again.
