Let’s Talk Menopause
Let’s be honest — menopause doesn’t exactly have the best PR team. It’s often whispered about like a dirty secret, blamed for everything from bad moods to forgotten birthdays, and barely gets a mention in most health chats. But here’s the thing: every woman goes through it. So why not talk about it — openly, honestly, and maybe even with a bit of humour?
Perimenopause: The Sneaky Prelude
Before menopause officially kicks in, there’s the warm-up act: perimenopause. This can start in your 40s — or even late 30s for some — and it’s the body’s way of saying, “Hey, changes are coming!”
One month your period is right on schedule, the next it ghosts you completely, only to return with a vengeance. You’re hot, then cold, then cranky, then crying at a dog food commercial. Welcome to hormone rollercoaster land.
Menopause: Not the End, Just a New Chapter
Menopause itself is defined as 12 months without a period. The average age in Australia is around 51, but it’s different for everyone. Some women breeze through with barely a hiccup. Others? Not so lucky.
Common symptoms include:
- Hot flushes (aka spontaneous combustion)
- Night sweats (like you slept in a sauna)
- Mood swings (no explanation needed)
- Brain fog (where did I put my keys… and my brain?)
- Vaginal dryness (yep, we’re going there)
- Sleep issues
- Low energy and libido.
Does it sound like fun? Not particularly. But it is manageable.
So, What Helps?
Start with the basics: move your body regularly, eat good food, cut back on alcohol and caffeine (yes, sorry), and try to sleep (we know — it’s hard when your bed feels like lava).
But also: talk to your GP. Seriously. There are safe and effective options out there, including Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), non-hormonal meds, and other supports tailored to your needs.
Why Talking About It Matters
Too many women suffer in silence, thinking they just have to “push through.” But menopause isn’t a personal failure — it’s biology. The more we talk about it, the easier it gets. No shame, no stigma. Just real women supporting each other through a real-life transition.
Hot Tip (pun intended): You’re Not Alone
This stage of life doesn’t have to be miserable. In fact, it can be freeing. No more periods, no more contraception worries, and a growing sense of not caring what others think (in the best way possible).
Menopause is not the beginning of the end — it’s just the end of the beginning. So grab a fan, a sense of humour, and some good information, and embrace the new you.
Let’s stop whispering and start talking. Your future self will thank you.
Dr Kaur is the Clinical Lead and GP at the Bendigo Community Health Services Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub.
Health Matters is a new, regular column by the experts at Bendigo Community Health Services. It’s all about sharing advice, opinions and new research from those in the know to encourage and empower a healthier community.
