World Menopause Day
What’s a pain in the womb and shrouded in mystery? Female reproductive health, of course. When it comes to the ins and outs of the ovary club, there are a lot of things we don’t get taught - including anything useful about menopause. Given that this huge hormonal shift effects at least 50% of the population (more if you consider that most cis blokes don’t live in a womanless vacuum) not enough people are really clued in on the basics of menopause. Not even the Menopause Banshee in Big Mouth answers any of our questions on the matter (even if she is incredibly rad).
World Menopause Day falls on 18th October, which is why we’re joining the effort to demystify menopause with some quick facts and resources.
What is perimenopause?
This is your little warm-up for the big event; the amuse-bouche of menopause. For most, perimenopause will kick in sometime after the age of 40, as your ovaries start dialing back on their production of oestrogen. This is when you might begin to feel the symptoms associated with menopause. Perimenopause can last 4 - 7 years, with around ¾ perimenopausal people experiencing symptoms.
But then what’s menopause?
‘Menopause’ is often used as an umbrella term that includes perimenopause and all the associated symptoms. Technically, your menopause is when you’ve not had a monthly period for over a year. The word ‘menopause’ comes from meno, meaning ‘menstrual cycle’, and pause, meaning ‘to stop’.
Why is it such a big deal?
The way people experience menopause varies, ranging from fuss free to freakin’ terrible. As with many aspects of female reproductive health, menopause is commonly misunderstood and overlooked, despite having the potential to affect a person’s physical and mental health quite seriously. Whether you’re going through it yourself, or simply know a menopausal person, it can be helpful to find out more. Raising awareness about menopause will help diminish workplace gender inequality and support those experiencing menopause to access effective and compassionate healthcare. Rock My Menopause have excellent resources to help you get started.
OK, but how bad is it really?
There are many frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause that could have an impact on your quality of life. But don’t be disheartened! There are a few things that you can do to manage your symptoms. World Menopause Day is a great opportunity to teach yourself, your loved ones, and even your employer, how small considerations can help ease the experience of menopause. And once you’ve come out the other side, you might enjoy your newfound freedom from the stress of periods and pregnancy scares…
I think I’m experiencing the symptoms, but I’m not 40 yet…
Some people will go through ‘early menopause’. You are more likely to experience this if you have had your ovaries removed, a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy to the pelvic area, or surgery for endometriosis. If you think you are perimenopausal at an early age, visit your GP for advice.
What about trans people?
Trans men who don’t choose to medically transition will experience the same perimenopausal symptoms as women. Taking testosterone in order to transition will cause periods to stop, but such men are unlikely to experience the symptoms associated with menopause, especially if they begin their transition at a pre-menopausal age. Trans women should not experience any perimenopausal symptoms, provided they continue to take oestrogen throughout their life. If you’re trans and don’t feel comfortable talking to your GP about menopause, try this list of ‘trans-friendly’ GPs (UK).
Is my life over now I’m perimenopausal?
Of course not! Reaching menopause doesn’t mean you’re ‘over the hill’, nor will any symptoms you experience hold you back forever. For some, menopause will be a transformative and liberating experience (yes, ok maybe only if you’re that smug friend we all have). If you’re struggling with yours, you might enjoy A Friend for the Ride: Encouraging Words for the Menopause Roller Coaster.
Where can I read more?
The following useful resources informed everything you just read:
University of Leeds Menopause Guidance
Healthline - The Best Menopause Blogs of 2019
