Sallyanne Brady
Founder, The Irish Menopause
Confusion is the word that springs to mind when it comes to information about menopause. Wading through treacle while engulfed in brain fog is difficult enough without trying to decipher fact from fiction.
Menopause has always been under-discussed, under-recognised and swept under the carpet! But it’s crucial that correct information is easily available.
Menopause myths and facts:
- ‘Menopause’ means you have not had a period for 12 months consecutively or 24 months if you’re under 50.
- The average age for reaching menopause is 51 years.
- The diagnosis of perimenopause is based on symptoms, not on blood results. As per NICE Guidelines and ICGP Guidelines, blood tests are not required.
- Menopause will be brought on abruptly post-hysterectomy, including removal of ovaries and can also occur early if ovaries remain.
- Perimenopause is the years leading up to menopause and will start many years before the final period. Most commonly, symptoms may present themselves during a woman’s early 40s, but they’re often not recognised as hormonal.
- Menopause means you’re no longer producing hormones from the ovaries and will no longer have periods. We do not go through menopause, we go into it.
- The most common symptoms not considered related to menopause are anxiety, tinnitus, insomnia, gut issues and — believe it or not — painful feet. Some will never experience a hot flush.
- HRT means hormone replacement therapy; you are replacing something the body no longer produces. Hormones, if suitable for you, can be used for life, not just for the short term.
- Some HRTs are referred to as ‘body identical’, meaning the hormones are identical to the human versions and are synthesised from plants. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of different types of HRT.
- Your periods don’t have to have stopped for you to start HRT if you wish. Perimenopause is when symptoms present, which can interfere with your quality of life.
- Our gut has a very important role in health and can be affected by hormonal transition. Good diet and lifestyle are essential at this time in your life.
- Menopause can affect your mental health. Speak with a medic as this can be helped.
- So, as you find the keys in the cutlery drawer and the polish in the fridge, please don’t think it’s just you. Menopause brain fog is real; talk with your healthcare professional today.