Myth – Menopause affects old women
There are many myths about menopause. Here’s one: Myth – Menopause affects old women. But the FACT is that perimenopause can start in your late 30s or early 40s, a far cry from old age – when you still wear a jean jacket, take your snowboard out for a run, drink from a Mason jar as said in the Baroness Von Sketch Show – watch it here:
Most women start peri knowing little about what to expect. They probably know about hot flashes but many other symptoms—memory problems, fatigue, mood swings , anger and rage, loss of libido, aches and pains, anxiety, self-doubt, and even heart palpitations—are also possible and these are rarely put into the context of the hormonal changes of midlife.
Believe it or not (you should believe it!), many women are diagnosed with a mental health problem instead of perimenopause or hormonal imbalance, and consequently prescribed inappropriate medication that won’t help and may worsen the problem due to adverse effects. Have you, or a woman you know, experienced this? LMK.
And yes, like many women you may be unaware of and unprepared for (peri)menopause. There are many reasons for this, including the secrecy surrounding menopause, embarrassment, lack of intergenerational sharing, and doctors’ lack of training about this natural and inevitable phase of a woman’s life.
Many women I work with tell me that their doctors dismissed their complaints and told them they are too young to be in peri. Too often, women in peri are told to “hang in there and this too shall pass”.
Well, at least the doctor in the sketch was right about one thing: perimenopause challenges may last for several years! That’s one more reason why women should get evidence-based, relevant, and up-to-date information and support to navigate peri.
Teresa Isabel Dias is a pharmacist and Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP) who provides education and support on symptom management for women at work and at home so they’ll feel like themselves again and enjoy a vibrant and productive life.
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If would like to know how Teresa can improve your menopause transition then schedule a complimentary Discovery Call at MenopausED.org.
