Menopause is a natural stage in every woman’s life, but it is often surrounded by myths that create confusion, fears, and misunderstandings. This transition, though inevitable, does not have to be seen as a negative phase. In fact, many of the common beliefs about menopause can hinder a proper understanding of what it truly entails.
In this article, we debunk 8 common myths about menopause to help you stay better informed and prepared to face this stage of life. Understanding the reality behind these myths will allow you to adapt more easily to the changes, manage the symptoms more effectively, and experience this phase with greater peace of mind and confidence.
Myth 1: Menopause happens suddenly.
Reality: Menopause is a gradual process. Before menopause, many women go through early menopause or perimenopause, a transition that can last between 2 and 5 years. During this phase, hormone levels fluctuate, causing menopause symptoms like hot flashes and menstrual changes. Menopause is confirmed when a woman has gone 12 months without menstruating.
Myth 2: It only happens to women over 50.
Reality: Although the average age of menopause onset is around 51, there are also cases of early menopause (before age 40) or premature menopause (between ages 40 and 45). These conditions may be linked to genetic factors, medical treatments like chemotherapy, or the removal of the ovaries.
Myth 3: Menopause always leads to weight gain.
Reality: Although hormonal changes can affect the distribution of body fat, weight gain is not inevitable. Metabolism may slow down with age, but maintaining healthy habits such as a balanced diet and regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight.
Myth 4: Hot flashes are the only symptom of menopause.
Reality: Hot flashes are one of the most well-known menopause symptoms, but not the only one. Other symptoms may include night sweats, insomnia, mood swings, vaginal dryness, decreased sexual desire, cognitive changes (memory or concentration), and changes in the skin, hair, or body shape. The intensity, duration, and frequency of these symptoms vary among women.
Regarding hot flashes, 70-80% of women may experience them, and their intensity and duration differ from person to person. Some only have them at night, while others may suffer from intense hot flashes throughout the day. On average, these symptoms last between 1 and 3 years, though in some cases, they can extend up to 10 years after menopause.
Myth 5: After menopause, sexual desire disappears.
Reality: Not all women experience a decrease in sexual desire during or after menopause. Hormonal changes can affect libido, but this doesn’t mean it disappears. Factors like vaginal dryness may have an impact, but with appropriate treatments and communication, many women continue to enjoy an active sexual life.
Myth 6: Menopause causes depression.
Reality: Although some women experience mood swings, anxiety, or sadness during menopause due to hormonal fluctuations, menopause does not automatically cause clinical depression. Depression is a complex disorder that involves biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors and cannot be solely attributed to menopause.
The transition to menopause can be emotionally complex, as some women may face concerns about aging, fertility, or changes in their personal or professional life. These psychological factors may influence emotional well-being but are not direct causes of depression. Significant life changes, such as children leaving home, retirement, or caring for elderly relatives, can also play a role.
It’s important to seek professional help and support if feelings of sadness or anxiety persist.
Myth 7: Menopause leads to a decline in health.
Reality: Many health issues are more related to aging than to menopause. Leading an active lifestyle, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising helps protect the heart and prevent muscle loss. Health during menopause also includes regular gynecological checkups and medical exams to monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose levels.
Myth 8: Nothing can be done to alleviate symptoms.
Reality: There are several options for managing menopause symptoms. Hormone therapy for menopause can be a safe and effective option for many women whose symptoms affect their quality of life. However, it’s not suitable for all women and should be discussed with a doctor, who will assess the risks and benefits based on the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle. There are also non-hormonal alternatives, such as medications for hot flashes, natural therapies, and lifestyle changes.
Self-care and consulting a healthcare professional can make a big difference in how you experience this stage.
Menopause is a natural transition, and women’s experiences are very diverse. Being properly informed can help debunk many misconceptions and allow for better adaptation and management of symptoms.
At the Gynecology Department of CreuBlanca, we offer personalized checkups and comprehensive support during this stage of life. Our goal is to accompany you and help you maintain optimal health during menopause, tailored to your needs.