As World Menopause Month unfolds in October, interest in menopause has skyrocketed, with search queries about menopause symptoms and signs seeing massive increases. This heightened curiosity reflects a growing desire for information, support, and empowerment during this significant stage in a woman’s life.
Sally Phillips, an actress and comedian, recently stated, “We’re women who can make serious waves and change things because, frankly, we start to care a lot less what everyone else thinks.” This sentiment highlights the shift towards women taking control of their menopause journey, and Wild Nutrition’s Head of Nutrition, Lorna Driver-Davies, is here to offer valuable insights.
Lorna has worked with hundreds of women navigating perimenopause and menopause, and she has compiled a list of 10 important facts to help women feel more empowered during this transition.
1. A Significant Portion of a Woman’s Life is Spent in Perimenopause or Postmenopause
Women can spend 40% of their lives in perimenopause or postmenopause. Perimenopause, which can last from 6 months to 10 years, involves fluctuating hormone levels and menstrual cycle changes, often resulting in both physical and emotional symptoms.
2. Menopause Symptoms Are More Extensive Than You Think
While a third of women can name three menopause symptoms, there are actually 48 in total. A lack of awareness about this stage in life underscores the importance of educational resources like The Future of Perimenopause Report, which offers valuable insights into the menopause transition.
3. One Billion Women Will Experience Menopause by 2025
By 2025, it is estimated that one billion women will be going through menopause. Today, women are finding comfort and support in sharing their stories with others in similar stages of life, whether in person or online.
4. GPs May Not Always Have the Answers
It’s important not to feel discouraged if you visit your GP and don’t get immediate answers. Many clinicians (75%) lack regular menopause training, and there are only 118 menopause clinics in the UK, meaning access to expert advice can be limited.
5. Many Women Are Still Unaware of Perimenopause
Almost half (46%) of women are unaware of what perimenopause is. As health awareness increases, more women are learning to embrace perimenopause as a time of positive change, enhancing their overall wellbeing.
6. A Clear Understanding of Perimenopause vs Menopause Is Still Lacking
A third of women don’t understand the difference between perimenopause and menopause. However, awareness is on the rise, with modern health, communication, and tech innovations empowering women during this transformative phase.
7. It May Take Multiple Visits to Get a Diagnosis
18% of women visit their doctor six times before receiving a diagnosis. This highlights the need for better awareness and support, particularly through initiatives like Menopause Mandate, which calls for the inclusion of peri/menopause in the NHS 40+ Health Check.
8. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Choosing HRT is a personal decision. A survey revealed that 32% of women want to find a natural alternative to HRT, while others swear by its effectiveness. It’s important to consider your body’s unique hormone profile when choosing treatment options.
9. Natural Supplements Can Make a Big Difference
Key nutrients like calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for women during perimenopause. Ensuring your diet is rich in these natural ingredients can help ease the transition.
10. Education and Community Support Are Crucial
One in four women feel knowledgeable about menopause, but 42% know little to nothing about its emotional and mental effects. This highlights the urgent need for community support and education to ensure that women are properly informed about this life stage.
Lorna adds: “Small daily habits stacked together make the biggest impact on our health. Focus on a wholefood Mediterranean diet with vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and quality fish and meat to build a strong foundation during this transition.”
