Modibodi debunks some common menopause myths to help you embrace your changing body – and an exciting new chapter in your life.
Menopause is often known as the final menstrual period, occurring when there is a change in female reproductive hormones and the ovaries no longer release any eggs.
Perimenopause is the stage before natural menopause and is usually when women begin to experience associated symptoms.
When we search for symptoms of anything online, we can often panic and begin to think our situation is worse than it usually is. And we also often forget to remember that everyone is different and is affected differently by various bodily processes.
Menopauses is one of those things where women’s personal experiences are greatly varied, and as a result there are a lot of myths out there!
Modibodi decided to delve deeper and see if we could unpack some of them and understand the process a little better
The warning Signs The first sign of menopause isn't always hot flashes, contrary to popular belief. While this is a common symptom for many women it doesn't necessarily signal that a menopausal stage is coming. Other common signs actually include fatigue, irritability, irregular periods, weight gain, low libido and cravings.
That one day, your period just stops
Menopause is commonly associated with periods just stopping at once and never returning again (wouldn’t that be nice?) Actually, the stopping of your menstrual cycle is a gradual process, and is more likely to slowly reduce until there is nothing left. For some women they can even get heavier before they stop. The menopausal transition can easily last 3-5 years and fluctuates greatly.
It only causes physical symptoms
This mentality is also false, as menopause marks a stage in your life when your body is undergoing both physical but also hormonal changes which can affect mood and personality. Changes in estrogen levels are a common cause of mood swings, but it can often be hard to recognise that its hormones causing it.
That you’ll gain weight
Don’t panic at the title of this one. While unwanted weight can be a little more common during menopause, it isn’t guaranteed. Due to the hormonal imbalance your body responds by storing fat (usually around the waist, hips and thighs). You can maintain a healthy weight by exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet, this will also release endorphins to help boost your mood when you’re feeling a little blue.
That it begins at age 50
There is no universal biological clock that marks the beginning of menopause for all women. The average age to begin menopause is 52, but it can start from as early as late 30’s or later on around 60 years. Individual variation is completely normal and is really dependent on a woman's genes, so it’s best not to compare yourself to anyone else.
That you’ll become incontinent
During menopause, bladder tissue can thin, making you more prone to bladder leaks, particularly if you run or cough. There are a lot of options that can provide relief for this. Kegel exercises are great to strengthen and firm these thinned tissues. And of course, Modibodis are a great and discreet alternative to wearing incontinence pads if you’d feel more secure and relaxed just wearing protective underwear. Nobody will ever notice, and they’re so comfy that neither will you! The sensual hi waist moderate absorbency is a great choice if you leak frequently or the classic bikini light if you leak infrequently. Menopause is just another life stage that every woman faces, just like the glorious arrival of our first period. An inevitable part of aging, menopause is a natural process that happens to every woman, although it affects everyone differently. It isn’t something to be scared of or worried about, just make sure you’ve got your Modibodis on to protect against any unexpected period or bladder leaks!
That Sex Drive Will Decrease
Many people are under the impression that a natural fact of getting older is a decrease in libido and that this is a natural part of ageing. While yes, this can be the case for some, due to vaginal tissues wearing out and losing elasticity. However, not everyone feels this way and are able and happy to keep having sex. For 50% of menopausal women however, vaginal dryness during intercourse is very painful, making them less interested in sex. You can use lubricant, or natural based oil if you don’t use condoms (as oil can break down condoms) which help with dryness. If this doesn’t work, your doctor is also able to prescribe you vaginal estrogen which can be taken as a tablet or cream.
Facts sourced from Womens Health Network and Women to Women The Modibodi team are not health professionals so if you are feeling concerned regarding any health related issues then please seek advice from your doctor.
