Insights from a Menopause Health Coach
As a holistic and functional menopause health coach dedicated to empowering women through this transformative phase of life, I encounter numerous misconceptions and myths surrounding menopause – from my research as well as from day-to-day conversations with menopausal women in my circle
I believe it’s essential to debunk these falsehoods to ensure women receive the support and guidance they deserve.
I want to address five of the most common myths about menopause:
Myth #1: Once you’re in menopause, it’s all doom and gloom.
Contrary to popular belief, menopause can be a time of liberation and vitality for many women. Instead of viewing it as a downhill journey, it can be the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for personal growth, improved health, and pursuing long-held dreams.
Myth #2: Menopause starts around age 50.
While the average age of menopause in the USA is 51, the onset of menopause varies greatly among women. Some may experience symptoms as early as their mid-30s, while others may not enter menopause until their early 60s. It’s essential to recognize that every woman’s journey through menopause is unique and not strictly bound by age.
Myth #3: Weight gain and belly fat in menopause are inevitable.
The notion that weight gain and a slowing metabolism are unavoidable during menopause is outdated. In reality, adopting a holistic approach to health, including nutritious eating habits and appropriate exercise and movement, having a solid sleep routine, and paying attention to daily life stressors, can really help maintain a healthy weight and metabolism. These are all essential needle movers if we want to see results.
Myth #4: Hormone therapy is “dangerous.”
Despite past misconceptions stemming from the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative Study, hormone therapy, including bioidentical hormone therapy, can be safe and effective for managing menopausal symptoms. It’s crucial to conduct your own thorough research and consult with your healthcare provider and other healthcare professionals like those who specialize in hormone therapy to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
Myth #5: Menopause symptoms can only be managed by prescription meds.
While prescription medications may provide relief for some menopausal symptoms, they are not the only option. Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, stress management techniques, and dietary modifications can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Dispelling these myths is essential for empowering women to take control of their menopause journey.
By fostering open conversations with healthcare providers, conducting independent research, and embracing holistic approaches to health, women can navigate menopause with confidence and ease.
I always remind my clients that they are the CEO and boss of their own health.
Let’s bust through the myths surrounding menopause once and for all and embrace the possibilities of this empowering journey.
