Menopause will affect every woman who has periods, yet most of us grew up hearing about it in whispers, jokes or not at all. No wonder so many myths are still doing the rounds. Here are six we hear again and again in our circles, and what the facts actually say.
Myth
“It only happens around 50.”
The NHS says menopause usually happens between 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier. Stopping having regular periods before 45 is called early menopause, and before 40 it’s called premature menopause. The years leading up to it, known as perimenopause, can start well before your periods stop.
Myth
“It’s just hot flushes.”
Hot flushes are only one part of it. The NHS lists symptoms including trouble sleeping, low mood and anxiety, brain fog, joint aches, changes to your periods, vaginal dryness and needing to pee more often. We’ve gathered them in Perimenopause: the signs nobody told us about.
Myth
“You just have to put up with it.”
You don’t. The NHS describes options including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and non-hormonal treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for hot flushes and night sweats. What’s right is different for everyone, so speak to your GP about your symptoms and what might suit you.
Myth
“HRT is dangerous for everyone.”
The NHS says the benefits of HRT usually outweigh the risks for most women. It isn’t right for everyone, though. For example, people who have had breast cancer are usually advised not to take it, and the type of HRT can make a difference to the risks. This is a conversation to have with your GP, based on your own health.
Myth
“You can’t get pregnant in perimenopause.”
You can. Brook advises that if you reach menopause under 50, you should keep using contraception for two years after your last period. If you’re unsure whether you still need it, ask a healthcare professional before you stop.
Myth
“Keep it quiet at work.”
According to the Equality and Human Rights Commission, menopause symptoms that have a long-term and substantial impact on day-to-day life could count as a disability, which means employers must make reasonable adjustments. Women are also protected from discrimination linked to sex and age. Your workplace may well have a menopause policy, so it’s worth asking.
You’re not going mad, and you’re not on your own.
Why we’re talking about it.
So many women tell us they spent years thinking it was stress, burnout or “just getting older”. The sooner we talk openly about menopause, the sooner women can join the dots, ask the right questions and get the support they deserve. That’s exactly why our next circle is dedicated to it.
Our Circle 3.0 speakers will cover the science of perimenopause and menopause, demystify HRT, and talk about everything from nutrition and skincare to medical cannabis, with plenty of time for your questions.
🩷We’re a community, not a clinic. Speak to your GP or specialist.
Sources
- Menopause, NHS.
- Early menopause, NHS.
- Treatment for menopause and perimenopause, NHS.
- Benefits and risks of HRT, NHS.
- Contraception during perimenopause and menopause, Brook.
- Menopause in the workplace: guidance for employers, Equality and Human Rights Commission.
About this read
Written by The Women’s Circle team with AI support, then checked and approved by Sophie East, Founder of The Women’s Circle. This is general information, not medical advice. How we write.
