It’s Menopause Awareness Month, yet the experience of menopause remains one of the most under-discussed transitions in a woman’s life. For generations, this natural phase has been shrouded in mystery, silence, and even shame. But why? How did we get to a point where millions of women endure these symptoms without the proper knowledge, support, or medical care? And, more importantly, how do we change that… now!

Breaking the Silence: Why Menopause Is Still Taboo

Despite affecting half the population, menopause is rarely discussed in everyday life or even in medical training. Some point to deep-rooted misogyny as a key reason. Throughout history, women’s bodies and their experiences have been ignored or diminished, especially when it comes to aging. The cultural obsession with youth doesn’t help – menopause is often seen as a signal that a woman’s “prime” has passed, which is a harmful and entirely false narrative.

Medical professionals, too, have been slow to catch up. Shockingly, many doctors receive little to no training on menopause, leaving countless women misdiagnosed or entirely undiagnosed. They’re left to navigate this overwhelming phase with only whispers of “hot flushes” and “mood swings,” while the full spectrum of menopause remains unknown to them.

So, it’s no wonder that many women feel unprepared. A 2022 study revealed that almost two-thirds of women experiencing perimenopause, the phase leading up to menopause – did not recognise their symptoms as being related to it. In an era where we’re encouraged to understand our bodies, this gap is glaring.

The Symptoms You Need to Know

Perimenopause can begin months or even years before your periods officially stop, and for many, symptoms linger long after menstruation ends. One of the first clues? Changes in your period. They might become irregular, heavier, lighter, or just plain unpredictable.

While everyone’s experience is different, here are some common symptoms to watch for:

• Hot flushes and night sweats—those infamous bursts of heat that leave you red-faced and sweating, even in the middle of the night.
• Anxiety and mood changes—many women report feeling more irritable or experiencing waves of low mood, often without a clear reason.
• Brain fog—a real phenomenon where concentration, memory, and focus can feel distant.
• Changes in your skin—dryness, oiliness, or even acne may make a reappearance.
• Hair loss or thinning—it’s common to experience noticeable changes in your hair’s volume.
• Joint pain—aches, stiffness, and inflammation can arise, seemingly out of nowhere.
• Urinary issues and vaginal dryness—these are often the least discussed symptoms, yet they affect countless women.

And these are just a few. Some women experience tinnitus, palpitations, or an increase in facial hair. The list is long, and the symptoms are real.

Menopause and Mental Health: The Hidden Battle

Perhaps one of the most overlooked aspects of menopause is its impact on mental health. Mood swings, anxiety, and loss of self-confidence can take their toll, and without proper recognition, they can be devastating. Many women find themselves battling “brain fog,” unable to focus or recall simple details. Others feel as though they’ve lost their sense of self. It’s essential to understand that these psychological effects are not “all in your head.” They are tied to the significant hormonal shifts your body is undergoing.

Why Are Women Still Going Undiagnosed?

One of the most frustrating aspects of menopause is how often women are left undiagnosed. This is particularly true for those experiencing early menopause, known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), where symptoms start before the age of 40. Many doctors still aren’t equipped to recognise the signs or dismiss them as stress, aging, or mental health issues. For those under 45, getting a diagnosis can often require pushing for blood tests to measure hormone levels, especially if symptoms don’t fit the stereotypical profile.

Menopause in the Mainstream: Why Things Are Finally Changing

Fortunately, we are starting to see a shift. Thanks to pioneering figures like Dr. Naomi Potter and high-profile campaigns from women such as Davina McCall, menopause is finally entering the mainstream. The surge of awareness, driven by social media and celebrity endorsements, has forced conversations in places that had long been silent.

This increased visibility is leading to changes in the workplace, where employers are offering more support for menopausal women, and in healthcare, where there’s growing pressure for improved training and resources for medical professionals.

What Can You Do?

If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t suffer in silence. You can start by speaking to your GP—if possible, ask to see a female health professional if that makes you feel more comfortable. You can also keep a record of your symptoms (there are even handy menopause symptom questionnaires available) to help you track changes and discuss them with your doctor.

If you’re feeling isolated, consider attending a Menopause Café, a safe space where you can talk about your experiences with others going through the same thing. If you’re looking for support with managing perimenopause or menopause contact Menopause Care.

Remember, menopause is a transition that can last years. Armed with knowledge, support, and a growing community of women demanding better, we can ensure that the silence is broken—and that no woman has to face this journey alone.