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Menopause Myths


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There are plenty of misconceptions about menopause. We wanted to explore those myths. When it comes to debunking menopause myths, few voices are more respected than Dr. Monica Christmas, Director of the Menopause Program and Centre for Women’s Integrated Health at UChicago Medicine. As an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and a Certified Menopause Practitioner with The Menopause Society.

Dr. Christmas is a leading advocate for open, honest conversations about menopause, especially in the workplace. She champions reducing stigma and empowering women with the facts, not fear, around hormonal health and ageing.

Top 10 Myths:


1. “Menopause only lasts a year.”False. Menopause is officially one day (12 months after your last period), but perimenopause can last up to 10 years. Symptoms often start in your 40s, sometimes even earlier.


2. “Hot flushes are the only symptom.”They’re common, but menopause comes with over 30 potential symptoms, including anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and even burning mouth syndrome (yep, it’s real … see below for a full list).


3. “It’s just a natural phase—deal with it.”Yes, menopause is natural. That doesn’t mean it should be ignored. There’s help, from lifestyle support to HRT and therapy. You don’t have to suffer in silence.


4. “You can’t get pregnant during perimenopause.”Wrong. As long as you’re still having periods (even irregularly), pregnancy is still possible. Always speak with a healthcare provider before ditching contraception.


5. “HRT causes cancer.”This one causes panic. The truth? For most women, HRT is safe and effective, especially when started early. Risks depend on age, health history, and type of HRT, talk to your GP or a menopause specialist.


6. “Menopause only affects women’s bodies.”It affects everything: your emotions, your brain, your relationships, even your career. Hormonal shifts can cause mood swings, low confidence, and burnout.


7. “Only older women go through menopause.”Nope. Early menopause (before 45) and premature ovarian insufficiency (before 40) affect thousands. If your cycle changes in your 30s, it’s worth investigating.


8. “Weight gain is inevitable.”Hormonal changes can affect metabolism, but lifestyle, nutrition, sleep, and stress all play a role. It’s not about fighting your body, it’s about supporting it differently.


9. “All women experience it the same way.”There is no one-size-fits-all. Your symptoms and needs are as unique as you are. Some women breeze through. Others need serious support. Neither is wrong.


10. “Talking about menopause is taboo.”Not here. Not anymore. We’re done whispering. Menopause is real, impactful, and deserves open, honest conversation.

30+ potential symptoms of perimenopause and menopause:


These can vary in intensity and duration, and every woman’s journey is unique:


  1. Hot flushes

  2. Night sweats

  3. Irregular periods

  4. Sleep disturbances or insomnia

  5. Mood swings

  6. Irritability

  7. Anxiety

  8. Depression

  9. Fatigue or low energy

  10. Brain fog / memory lapses

  11. Reduced concentration

  12. Low libido

  13. Vaginal dryness

  14. Pain during sex

  15. Urinary urgency / incontinence

  16. Joint pain or stiffness

  17. Muscle aches

  18. Weight gain, especially around the midsection

  19. Thinning hair or hair loss

  20. Dry skin

  21. Bloating

  22. Changes in body odour

  23. Heart palpitations

  24. Headaches or migraines

  25. Tingling extremities (hands/feet)

  26. Burning mouth syndrome

  27. Dizziness or vertigo

  28. Electric shock sensations

  29. Breast tenderness

  30. Gum problems / dry mouth

  31. Digestive issues (e.g. constipation or indigestion)

  32. Allergies worsening or appearing

  33. Increased PMS symptoms before final period

  34. Feeling cold


Many of these symptoms are due to fluctuating oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels, affecting not just reproductive health, but brain function, heart health, bone density, and emotional wellbeing.


The She Said Club is building space where women can finally have access to the right information, real conversations, and support that meets them where they are - hormonally, emotionally, and physically.


If you would like more support, get in touch and we can help signpost you: hello@shesaidclub.com

 

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