Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive capacity. It occurs when the ovaries fail
Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life which marks the end of their reproductive capacity. It occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, confirmed when a woman Has not had a period for a consecutive year.
During this period, the A woman’s body goes through a series of hormonal changes which can cause a variety of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep problems and decreased libido. It may also increase your risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.
Despite that, women may need treatment to help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of certain health conditions. The treatment may include lifestyle changes, alternative therapies, medications and hormonal treatments. It is important to talk to a doctor to determine the best treatment option for each woman.
Therefore, there are many myths and truths about this moment, and below are some of them.
15 myths and truths about menopause
1. All women have symptoms
Mito! Although most women experience some symptoms, not all women have them and they can vary in severity and duration.
2. Menopause is always accompanied by hot flashes
Mito! Hot flashes are a common symptom, but not all women experience them. Additionally, some women may have very mild hot flashes, while others may have them very intensely.
3. It causes depression
Mito! Although some women may experience symptoms of depression during menopause, it does not cause depression. Depression can be related to other factors, such as stress, life changes or health problems.
4. Hormone therapy is the only option to alleviate symptoms
Mito! There are many treatment options to alleviate symptoms, including lifestyle changes, alternative therapies, medications, and hormonal treatments. Therefore, the choice of treatment must be made together with a doctor, taking into account the risks and benefits.
5. Menopause is the end of sexual life
Mito! It does not mean the end of sex life. On the contrary, some women report an improvement in their sex life after menopause. Additionally, there are many treatment options available to help women deal with any sexual problems that may arise.
6. Menopause increases your risk of certain health conditions
True! It can increase your risk of health conditions such as osteoporosis, heart disease and urinary incontinence.
7. It affects each woman differently
True! Each woman experiences menopause uniquely and symptoms can vary in severity and duration.
8. Menopause is not a disease
True! Although it can cause uncomfortable symptoms and increase the risk of certain health conditions, it is not a disease and is a natural process of female aging.
9. Menopause affects mental capacity
Mito! To date, there is no evidence to suggest that it affects a woman’s mental capacity or causes memory loss or dementia.
10. Starts at age 50
Among the myths and truths about menopause, this is the one that appears most often. But it’s a myth! Although the average age for menopause is 51, it can begin anywhere between the ages of 40 and 60.
Read too: Foods that can advance or delay menopause
11. Menopause causes weight gain
Mito! Menopause can lead to changes in metabolism and hormones, which can lead to weight gain, but this is not inevitable. Therefore, a healthy lifestyle and regular physical activity can help prevent weight gain.
12. Menopause causes decreased libido
Mito! Some women may experience a decrease in libido during the process, but this is not universal. Other factors, such as stress and relationship changes, can also affect libido.
13. Menopause occurs abruptly
Mito! Menopause is a gradual process that can take several years to occur. Thus, during this time, a woman may experience menstrual irregularities and other symptoms before menstruation stops completely.
14. Changes the appearance of skin and hair
True! Due to reduced estrogen, the skin may become drier, thinner and more wrinkled, and collagen and elastin production may decrease, leading to sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles. Furthermore, it can lead to thinning hair and slower nail growth.
15. There are no benefits to menopause
Mito! Although it is often associated with uncomfortable symptoms, it can also bring some benefits to women, such as stopping menstruation and contraceptive freedom.
Sources: TJDFT; CNN; Daniela Arakaki; MSD Manuals
