What is Menopause?
Menopause marks the point in time when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The average age is around 51 in the UK, though it can happen earlier or later. The time leading up to menopause is called perimenopause, when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms often begin.
Common Symptoms
Menopause is a biological transition, but the symptoms can be wide-ranging and affect daily life. They may include:
Hot flushes and night sweats
Sleep disturbances
Mood changes, anxiety, or low confidence
Brain fog and memory lapses
Irregular periods
Joint pain, headaches, or palpitations
Vaginal dryness and changes in libido
It’s estimated that around 80% of women experience symptoms, with about 25% finding them severe enough to impact their quality of life.
Why Awareness Matters
Despite being a natural stage of life, menopause has historically been under-discussed, leaving many women feeling unsupported. Raising awareness helps to:
Encourage open conversations at home and in the workplace
Highlight the importance of medical and holistic support
Ensure women know they are not alone in their experience
Promote research and education on long-term health impacts (such as bone and heart health, which can be affected post-menopause)
Support and Self-Care
Every woman’s experience is unique, but some steps can help manage the transition:
🌿 Lifestyle changes – balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene
🌿 Professional support – talking to a GP or specialist about treatment options, including HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
🌿 Complementary therapies – reflexology, yoga, meditation, or acupuncture, which many women find soothing
🌿 Community – connecting with others going through the same stage can provide reassurance and solidarity
This World Menopause Awareness Day, let’s encourage education, conversation, and compassion—because menopause is not just a medical event, it’s a life stage that deserves understanding, support, and respect. 💛