And so we begin…
As the famous (infamous?) Joan Rivers asked, “can we talk?”
And I mean really talk. About Menopause. Why is it that the beginning of a women’s reproductive life cycle, namely puberty is talked about, joked about, advertised about, even has a whole genre of novels dedicated to the topic; but the end of a women’s reproductive life cycle is barely whispered about?
Can we please let’s all talk Menopause?
If you’re a woman like me, you are guaranteed to experience this life transition as you age the same way you experienced puberty. And lucky us, it is just as messy and confusing, if not more so.
Granted puberty is viewed as an initiation into womanhood and menopause comes with the stigma of aging. But thanks to modern medicine, 40 is the new 30. So, let’s get over it! And get educated on how we can help ourselves as we suffer (and if you are experiencing this life cycle you know I mean suffer!) through.
Most women don’t know that perimenopause is a gradual transition between the reproductive years and menopause (which is the actual cessation of your menstrual period). Or that perimenopause can last for years and be associated with a whole host of symptoms ranging from nights sweats and hot flashes to memory problems and anxiety.
All I knew growing up was that when I stopped getting my period I was in menopause. But I knew nothing about all the symptoms I could potentially experience as I got to that point. I was just looking forward to not having to deal with a monthly mess!
I remember so clearly going to my doctor in my early 40’s and asking what was wrong with me? Why did I feel so crazy, anxious etc.? The response I got was less than insightful – “you look perfectly healthy to me. Are you seeing a therapist?”
If I knew then what I know now…
Let’s please force the conversation. There is so much to learn about the overwhelming number of symptoms brought on by perimenopause but more importantly all the tools and resources available to help alleviate those symptoms.
As I embark on my own journey there are a few key things I have learned:
1. There are now more and more female medical practitioners dedicating their practices to helping women understand and successfully manage their symptoms. NAMS (The North American Menopause Society) manages a database of menopause practitioners.
2. We are not crazy. Mood swings, short-term memory loss and difficulty thinking straight are all common effects of perimenopause as your hormonal rhythm is once again being disrupted (like puberty). It goes without saying to always consult a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms to confirm their origins.
3. We need to contribute to the national dialogue and support each other. You may be surprised to learn that The UK is far ahead of the US when it comes to publicly speaking about menopause but more importantly in their approach to supporting women as they enter perimenopause. Did you know that there is a UK Menopause Taskforce comprised of Ministers and clinicians from all 4 nations committed to working together to co-ordinate and work together on support of women? Or that there is a proposed law for hormone replacement therapy to be free if prescribed? Or that it is possible for menopausal or perimenopausal employees to apply for disability? Shall I go on?
This is why I am excited to start hosting clinicians and experts in the field of menopause on the “Let’s all Talk Menopause” webinar series. They will be able to shed a lot of light on the topic but more importantly be available to answer your questions.
Thank you for listening.