Menopause is a phase in women’s lives that marks the end of their reproductive years. This natural biological process brings along various physiological and hormonal changes. Every woman experiences menopause in a different way. While some women may smoothly transition through this phase, others may experience symptoms like anxiety and hot flashes. Knowing exactly what to expect can help make this transition easier. So, here are seven surprising menopause facts you should be aware of. 

1. Perimenopause can last for years

Perimenopause is the stage prior to menopause, which can last from 4 to 8 years. This phase brings a gradual decline in the levels of progesterone and oestrogen. This leads to irregular menstruation and the onset of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. It's important for anyone experiencing these symptoms to consult with a doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions, such as an overactive thyroid. 

2. Sex is still enjoyable during menopause

Many women believe that their sex drive would decline or that intercourse would become painful after menopause due to vaginal dryness and reduced elasticity. However, there are several options available to improve vaginal health and prevent these issues from adversely affecting your sex life. Notably, lubricants, vaginal oestrogen inserts, and red light therapy are all effective ways to maintain vaginal health post-menopause. 

3. It’s possible to get pregnant during menopause

The chances of becoming pregnant and carrying a full-term pregnancy decrease as a woman gets closer to menopause. Nonetheless, with advancements in reproductive technology, it's possible to conceive after menopause with the help of donated eggs or embryos that have been preserved earlier in life. However, this carries an increased risk of preterm birth, pregnancy loss, and potential health risks for the mother, depending on her age and health condition at the time of conception.

4. The effects of menopause are not limited to the reproductive system

Oestrogen is a critical hormone that regulates metabolic homeostasis and function within the body. When oestrogen production ceases during menopause, it can cause changes in fat production and distribution, thyroid function, appetite, energy levels, mood, and sleeping patterns. These hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to weight gain, fatigue, and increased hunger in up to 90% of women. Oestrogen also plays a vital role in managing cholesterol levels, and maintaining healthy blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. 

To support overall health during menopause, it's important to prioritise self-care habits, such as eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and following stress reduction techniques.

5. Menopause may affect your mental health

Prioritising your mental health is essential, especially during the menopause transition. Since women are already at a higher risk of anxiety and depression than men, this risk increases during menopause. Notably, menopause symptoms can also contribute to additional stress, causing feelings of anger, irritability, loss of interest, and a desire to give up on everything. 

However, hormone treatment, prescribed medications, aromatherapy, counselling, and relaxation techniques can be effective in managing stress and depression. It's important to seek support from a healthcare professional if you're struggling with your mental health during or after menopause.

6. Menopause can have an impact on your bone health

Oestrogen production declines during menopause impacting the calcium levels in your bones. This can result in a significant decrease in bone density, resulting in the development of osteoporosis, thereby increasing your risk of bone fractures, especially in the hip and spine areas. Accelerated bone loss is commonly observed in women during the first few years since their last menstrual period. It's crucial to prioritise bone health during menopause by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and discussing with your healthcare provider any necessary supplements or medications to support bone density.

7. There are many unexpected symptoms of menopause

The hormonal changes during menopause can trigger various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Treatment can help in managing these symptoms. Some of the common symptoms experienced during menopause are:

• Hot flashes: Up to 75% of menopausal women experience sudden sensations of heat in their upper body.
• Night sweats: These are hot flashes experienced during the night, disrupting sleep.
• Difficulty sleeping: Mood changes, night sweats, and anxiety can make it hard to fall or stay asleep through the night.
• Vaginal dryness: Reduced oestrogen levels can lead to dryness and thinning of vaginal tissues, making sex painful or uncomfortable.
• Reduced libido: Hormonal changes can lead to a decrease in sexual desire and vaginal dryness can make sex uncomfortable.
• Mood changes: Fluctuation in hormone levels and environmental factors can cause anxiety, stress, and depression.

All in all, while menopause may bring about uncomfortable symptoms, it can be managed with various treatments and lifestyle changes. Women must remember, during this phase, it's important to prioritise self-care and seek medical advice when needed. For more questions,

Consult Apollo's Expert Gynaecologists

Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.