Menopause is a normal aspect of growing older. It generally occurs in the 40s or 50s. When a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 months in a row, this is said to be in menopause. In this natural process, the ovaries stop making reproductive hormones.
Symptoms you may experience this time may be hot flashes, low energy, sleep issues, issues with mood, etc. Talking to a gyne doctor is of great help to manage these symptoms. You might consult the highly experienced gynecologist in Siliguri for comprehensive care.
Understanding Myths Associated with Menopause
Although menopause is a normal stage of a woman's life, there are many myths or misconceptions about it. Many women experience needless anxiety and fear when they approach menopause because of false information they have.
Let’s debunk some of the most common menopause myths and learn about the facts that every woman should know.
Myth 1: Menopause Happens Suddenly
Fact: menopause is a natural thing that happens gradually. You’re more likely to notice signs. A woman may experience perimenopause for a number of years before she fully stops menstruating. Symptoms and signs including mood swings, hot flashes, sleep issues, and irregular periods are the most common symptoms you may notice. They develop with time. Although it varies from person to person, the average age for menopause is around 51-52.
Myth 2: Weight Gain Is Obvious
Fact: Hormonal changes are not usually the only cause of weight gain in women after menopause. Weight gain is not always evident, even though menopausal hormonal changes may have an impact on your metabolism.
You may manage your weight with exercise and a nutritious diet, which may have a big impact. However, hormonal changes associated with menopause seem to make it more likely for women to gain weight around their abdomen rather than their hips and thighs.
Myth 3: Menopause Only Affects Older Women
Fact: Between the ages of 45 and 55, the majority of women start the menopausal transition. But, some people go through menopause earlier than expected. Reasons can be surgery, genetics, or health issues. Before the age of forty, premature menopause might occur.
Bilateral oophorectomy is a surgical procedure that removes both of your ovaries before you experience natural menopause (known as surgical menopause).
Myth 4: The Only Symptom Is Hot Flashes
Fact: The truth is that while hot flashes are common, menopause is accompanied by many symptoms, such as:
- Sweating at night
- Variations in mood and anxiety
- Disturbances in sleep
- Dryness of the vagina
- Mood swings or irritability because of lack of sleep, hot flashes, and night sweats.
Symptoms here can vary in intensity, and each woman has a unique experience. Consult your gynecologist if these symptoms bother you or interfere with your quality of life.
Myth 5: Menopause Means Your Sex Life Is Over
Fact: The primary cause is a decline in estrogen levels after menopause, which can reduce a person's desire for sex. This may interfere with sexual arousal in women. Vaginal dryness is another discomfort common in this phase, which can lead to painful sex.
After all this, one can still enjoy a healthy sex life. You may maintain your sex life by using lubricants and hormone treatments. Trying out new turn-ons can be of great help. Maintaining the spark of intimacy and sexuality may be greatly supported by getting enough sleep, exercising, eating well, and ensuring clear communication with your partner.
Myth 6: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Menopause
Fact: Pregnancy is still possible up until 12 consecutive months without a period. Doctors may advise using birth control if you are not interested in becoming pregnant until your doctor certifies that you are fully menopausal.
You are more likely to have a preexisting medical condition that could make pregnancy and delivery more difficult as you age. Talk to your healthcare provider or the top gynecologist in Siliguri at New Ram Krishna Seva Sadan for expert advice.
Myth 7: Menopause Causes Depression In Women
Fact: Some women going through menopause or perimenopause will tell you that depressive symptoms are there. Menopause can lead to mood swings and anxiety due to hormonal changes, but it does not directly cause clinical depression based on the evidence available.
However, if you experience ongoing sadness, low mood, fatigue, or loss of interest in activities, seek professional help from a general physician, gynecologist, or psychiatrist. Lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication can be effective in managing your mental health during menopause.
Menopause is a natural and unavoidable change in women’s lives. Understanding the facts and debunking misconceptions can help women face this transition with confidence. If you are having menopausal symptoms, listen to your doctor only.
Speak with your doctor about lifestyle medications and treatment choices. You might consult the top gynecologist in Siliguri for personalized guidance and care.