This October, as the world marks World Menopause Month, there has been a significant increase in online searches for menopause symptom checklists and first signs of menopause. This shows that women are actively seeking answers and solutions to feel more in control during this universal stage of a woman’s life.
At a recent menopause event, Actress and Comedian Sally Philips emphasized the power of women during this transitional phase, stating, “We’re women who can make serious waves and change things because, frankly, we start to care a lot less what everyone else thinks.”
Lorna Driver-Davies, Head of Nutrition at Wild Nutrition, has supported numerous women through perimenopause and menopause, and has compiled ten lesser-known facts to empower women during this transition.
One of these facts is that 40% of women’s lives are spent in perimenopause or postmenopause, which can last anywhere from 6 months to 10 years. This stage is characterized by hormonal fluctuations and changes in the menstrual cycle, which can lead to physical or mental symptoms. Despite this, only a third of women can name three symptoms of menopause, when there are actually 48 in total.
Furthermore, it is estimated that by 2025, one billion women will be going through menopause, highlighting the importance of finding support and understanding during this time. However, only 118 menopause clinics are recognized by the British Menopause Society, and 75% of clinicians do not receive regular menopause training. This is why many women feel frustrated and dismissed when seeking help from their GP.
In addition, there is a lack of understanding and awareness about perimenopause, with 46% of women being unaware of what it is and 34% not understanding the difference between peri and menopause. However, with the emergence of health and wellness as the most important life stage currency, there is a growing trend of women embracing this transition and working with their bodies’ changing needs.
It is also important to note that menopause affects individuals differently, and there is no right or wrong approach to managing it. While some women may find relief through hormone replacement therapy (HRT), others may prefer to explore natural alternatives. Ensuring a diet rich in calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can also significantly ease the transition.
Despite this, a survey found that 42% of women know nothing or very little about the emotional and mental effects of menopause, highlighting the need for community support and education alongside healthcare reform.
Lorna Driver-Davies emphasizes that small daily habits can have the biggest impact on a woman’s health during this time. She suggests focusing on a wholefood Mediterranean diet and even offers free 15-minute nutritional therapy consultations to help women support themselves naturally through perimenopause and menopause.
For more information, please visit https://pressat.co.uk/.
