Why don’t we talk about menopause? This was the question I asked myself when I began this new phase of womanhood. I knew a little, but not enough to fully understand the significant changes and challenges I was about to face. So, I decided to learn more about what it truly means to start menopause.
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. According to the Australian Menopause Society, it is defined as “the last or final menstrual period.” Menopause is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without menstruation (amenorrhea), which results from the cessation of ovarian function. During this time, women experience a loss of ovarian follicles and follicular development, along with a decline in the production of oestrogen and progesterone. Typically, menopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 55; however, this can vary for each woman, with some experiencing it earlier (Greendale, Lee, & Arriola, 1999).
My story
I started menopause at age 45 and said goodbye to my menstrual cycle. To be honest, I wasn’t prepared and didn’t have much information about this new stage of women’s health.
During my peri-menopause ( the transition stage before menopause), I had a frightening experience—I was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance because I thought I was having a heart attack, but it was a high blood pressure. My body was going through a hormonal eruption. It was then that I began to realise that my body and I were no longer the same.
My initial reaction was to fall into depression. It hit me hard because I still held onto the hope of becoming a mother. But nature had a different plan. I cried, reflected deeply, and eventually came to accept it. Looking back now, I’m proud of how I managed to cope with those emotions and changes.
Since I lacked information, I took the initiative to talk to my relatives and friends who had already gone through this stage. Their insights helped me learn how to care for my body through exercise, nutrition, rest, and emotional self-care. This support and knowledge made a significant difference in my journey.
How do I manage it?
My body produces less oestrogen and progesterone, so I experienced physical and mental changes. I have hot flushes, insomnia, skin changes, metabolic changes, and pain in my muscles.
A friend of mine, Veronica, gave me a cookbook that explained all the essential and beneficial foods I needed for my well-being. I started eating healthier, focusing on a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and water. This shift in my diet has made a significant difference.
I also began keeping a diary to better understand my body and its patterns. For me, it was important to learn how the four seasons of the menstrual cycle would change during menopause, because this framework had previously helped me recognise my physical and emotional stages. For example, writing for my blog.
I have been practicing yoga and going to the gym for years, but with menopause, I changed my routine. I no longer lift heavy weights and instead focus more on bodyweight exercises. Exercising helps me manage my insomnia and feel more balanced.
Menopause has not been easy, but I am gradually learning to understand it better. I continue to explore how my body, emotions, and feelings are all deeply interconnected.
I follow a food routine rich in essential nutrients. For example, I eat a lot of chia and flax seeds, which help with hot flushes. I maintain both gym and yoga practices as part of my self-care. Of course, I sleep as much as I can, even when my old friend insomnia visits.
More importantly, I make sure to take care of myself. I take all the “me time” I need, and I’m not ashamed to talk about it. Menopause is a normal part of life.
Now, when someone says, “You’re in your menopause” because of some behaviour, I simply reply, “Yes, I am. What’s the problem?” It’s important to recognise that menopause is not a joke for anyone going through this stage of life, so don’t stereotype it.
Menopause is the big sister of our menstrual cycle. It’s a time to be with yourself at all times.
What I Wish I Had Known Before Going Into Menopause
I would have wanted to know all the important information upfront. For example, does menopause cause osteoporosis, muscle and bone pain, and a decline in libido?
Beyond the facts, I would have appreciated training sessions, conversations with friends, and listening to podcasts where other women share their experiences. For example, I listened to Halle Berry’s peri-menopause experience. Fortunately, I am doing this now.
Advices
I am on my menopause journey and still have a lot to learn.
If you haven’t reached menopause yet, here is my advice:
- Gather as much information as you can.
- Start tracking all the emotional and physical changes you experience during pre-menopause.
- Talk to a gynecologist for professional guidance.
References
Greendale, Gail A et al. The menopause. The Lancet, Volume 353, Issue 9152, 571 – 580.
Australian Menopause Society. What is Menopause? https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=1c445551-8053-4afd-b2a4-d40942c0d479
Green, S. Personal notes.
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