There are still many misconceptions out there about menopause and its effects on women’s health.   It is a natural process that all women will experience at some point in their lives, yet it is often misunderstood and surrounded by myths.

This blog post aims to bust some of the most common myths about menopause so that perimenopausal women can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

From the idea that it’s all downhill after “the change” to the notion that you can never enjoy intimacy again, there are a lot of misconceptions about what menopause means for women.

Let’s take a look at the most common myths and sort out fact from fiction.  Read on to discover the truth about menopausal symptoms, treatments, and more.

Myth #1

Menopause always occurs in your 50s. Fact: The average age for menopause is 51 but it can happen as early as your 30s or as late as your 60s. Each woman’s experience with menopause will vary.

Myth #2

You will no longer be able to get pregnant after menopause. Fact: This one is true—once you’re officially in menopause (which usually happens after 12 consecutive months without a period), you are no longer able to get pregnant naturally. However, if you still have periods occasionally, it is possible to get pregnant during perimenopause.

Myth #3

All women have hot flashes during menopause. Fact: Hot flashes are the most commonly reported symptom during menopause; however, some women never experience them or only experience mild ones that don’t interfere with their daily life. Other symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and night sweats can also occur during this time but are not as widely discussed or understood.

Myth #4

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the only way to treat menopausal symptoms. Fact: While HRT may be an effective treatment option for some women, there are other ways to manage symptoms such as diet changes and exercise that can help reduce discomfort associated with this stage of life. Additionally, natural supplements like black cohosh and maca root can also be helpful in relieving certain symptoms associated with menopause.

Myth #5

Menopausal women should avoid all forms of oestrogen supplementation because it increases risk for cancer and heart disease. Fact: While high doses of oestrogen therapy have been linked to an increased risk for certain cancers and heart disease, low doses of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are considered safe by many medical professionals when used correctly under the supervision of a doctor or nurse practitioner specifically trained in hormone therapy management.

Myth #6

Menopause Makes You Old: False! While menopause marks the end of your reproductive years, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to feel old. Menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings can be managed through lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise. Additionally, many perimenopausal and postmenopausal women find that they have more energy than ever before.

Myth #7

Your Libido Disappears During Menopause: False! Many women experience an increase in libido during menopausal years due to increased testosterone production. However, if you are experiencing decreased libido during this time, there are treatments available to help with this symptom as well.

Myth #8

You Can’t Exercise During Menopause: False! Regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, and fatigue. Exercise can also help improve cognitive function and mental health during this time in your life. It is important to speak with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen so that you can find an exercise plan tailored specifically for your needs.

Myth #9

You Should Avoid Sex During Menopause: False! Sex during menopausal years can be just as enjoyable as at any other stage in life. Additionally, sex helps reduce stress levels which can help minimize other symptoms associated with menopause such as insomnia or headaches. As always though, make sure to practice safe sex by using protection if necessary and communicating openly with partners about your needs during this time in your life.

Myth #10

Menopause is caused by low oestrogen levels. False! The cause of menopause is actually the gradual reduction of follicles in the ovaries, which leads to lower levels of oestrogen and progesterone over time. This decrease in hormones causes hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms associated with menopause.

Myth #11:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Is Dangerous: False! While some potential risks are associated with HRT, most studies show that those risks are minimal when taken correctly and in conjunction with regular medical checkups. In addition, HRT has been found to provide relief from many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flashes and night sweats.

So there are many misconceptions about what menopause means for women but don’t let them stop you from living your best life possible during these years.  Hopefully this list has helped dispel some common myths about menopause and its effects on women’s health. Menopausal symptoms vary from person to person so it’s important to talk with your doctor about what treatments might work best for you based on your individual needs and lifestyle preferences. Remember that you don’t have to suffer through uncomfortable symptoms alone, there are plenty of options available for managing them effectively.

By doing research on reliable sources like medical journals or talking openly with a doctor about symptoms or treatments available for managing them – you can better understand how to live comfortably through this transition period into post-menopausal life while still feeling confident and sexy along the way.

For a bigger list – download our Mythbusters here.