Menopause is a natural stage of life. Full stop.
For many women, it is a stage in life that shocks them when they reach it.
Menopause is rarely discussed and we tend to forget it exists until it actually affects us personally.
Also, many women think that they are still too young to be entering the menopause phase, when in reality they are not. "Sex and low libido"... bad press comes to mind as well as the way the media portrays a women past her prime, it is no wonder as women we dread entering the menopause.
I will be clear here-- when it comes to menopause you have nothing to fear and plenty to celebrate.
Here are my four myths on menopause put to rest.
1. Entering menopause means less or no sex and low libido
Isiah McKimmie, Sexologist and Relationship Therapist, explains that lack of libido and associated issues may have been present before entering menopause. Let's face it, if you have been with the same partner for the past 20 odd years you are bound to find it hard to have the same spark as when you first met. Menopause certainly can exacerbate the problem due to night sweats and subsequent exhaustion, but it may not be the true underlying cause.
2. Finding a practitioner that understands me is hard to find.
Finding answers from those who have been through the transition and offer helpful advice is easier than you think. It may take a little time but the internet has opened up many opportunities that you may not have considered. Practitioners are now able to do Skype interviews. So, you may find a woman in America who is able to help you from your home in London.
Also available are private and safe online groups with like minded women who listen to you and make you feel heard.
3. You will put on weight if you do not exercise every day.
Once you reach peri-menopause and menopause, your body is less forgiving and is not as able to tolerate bad habits or unhealthy eating plans but it does not mean that you have to hit the gym every day.
This is the time that you need to eat well and exercise regularly -- just three times a week is all you need - to help maintain a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight is achievable in the menopause.
4. The menopause will never end
Remember your experience when you went through puberty? No? Did not think so.
The same will be of the menopause phase. It is a phase that will pass.
Be kind to yourself and whisper these few words to yourself, "This is a time of change for my body and my life in general and I will survive this!"
But, just as you seeked help for symptoms during puberty (or your children if they are now experiencing puberty) seeking help during the menopause can make it an easier and quicker transition.
Julie Dargan is a Nurse, Naturopath BHSc and has worked in the wellness industry for over 30 years. Julie is currently hosting a free on online 6-Day Summit sharing over 20 interviews from a panel of amazing women who will share their expert advice on finding relief in the menopause. Also, ,Julie's FREE 5 Day Kickstart Program is excellent to get you on the right track to help you lose weight and find hormonal harmony in the menopause.
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