Menopause is increasingly becoming a focal point of discussion, particularly in the context of the shift in societal roles for women. Fifty years ago, a woman’s primary role was confined to a home, focusing on family care and domestic work. Today, however, women make up approximately 50% of the workforce, with 20% of those women aged between 40 and 50 (World, 2022). This significant shift has brought attention to the importance of addressing menopause, especially given that almost one-third of a woman’s life is spent in the phases of perimenopause and menopause. This societal shift not only validates the importance of menopause but also underscores the need for increased awareness, education, and research surrounding this crucial life change. By addressing this, we can advocate for policy changes, support systems, and a broader societal acceptance of women’s challenges during this period.
Perimenopause, much like puberty and pregnancy, induces the trifecta of biological, psychological, and social changes that affect not only women but also their families and communities. Lisa Mosconi, a neuroscientist and Director at Weill Cornell Women’s Brain Initiative, is a prominent researcher in the intersection of hormones and brain health. Her recent findings utilising advanced neuroimaging techniques demonstrate that hormonal changes can lead to observable changes in brain structure and function. For instance, declines in estrogen during perimenopause correlate with alterations in brain metabolism (Mosconi et al.). While many people are quick to associate menopause with hot flashes and the termination of menstrual cycles, the hormonal imbalances that take place can lead to subtle symptoms that are often overlooked. For example, women may have an altered sleep pattern, insomnia, early morning waking, night sweats, diminished energy levels, irritability and a generalised dip in resilience (Mosconi & Weill Cornell Medicine, 2024). Mental health is also significantly impacted during this transition. Some women face challenges in self-expression, lapses in memory, and struggle with feelings of low mood, self-doubt, anxiety and depression (NHS Choices, 2024). These changes can disrupt previously effective communication and coping styles, leaving women feeling confused and lonely as they navigate this new reality.
Accepting these changes is essential to allowing space for personal growth during this transition. According to Mary Claire Haver, board-certified OB-GYN and advocate for menopause awareness, early recognition of these changes is crucial to better prepare women for the transitions ahead. This emphasis on early recognition empowers women to take control of their menopausal journey and be better prepared for the changes that lie ahead (Allen, 2024).
When it comes to treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all approach; different women require varying help depending on the symptoms they’re experiencing. It is essential to find professionals that are menopaused-informed. Awareness is crucial—not only for women but also for their partners and families. A supportive partner can make a significant difference, yet many women may struggle within themselves to understand their own needs during this turbulent time. Finding time for self-reflection and self-awareness is essential. When women create space for understanding their evolving identities, they can manage challenges with greater compassion and kindness towards themselves. Embracing these changes can improve resilience and adaptability, empowering women to approach menopause with a sense of acceptance rather than fear.
Ultimately, navigating menopause requires a collaborative approach. By building a supportive network that includes healthcare professionals, family members, and friends, women can better manage their experiences and thrive during this pivotal life stage. This collaborative approach not only provides support but also helps women feel less alone in their journey through menopause.
Monisha Dadlani & AM Team
MsC., MoC. Member of: ACA, BACP
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Work Cited
Allen, G. (2024, June 4). The New Menopause: Dr Mary Claire Haver On Shame And StigmaFreeAging.
Forbes.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/gemmaallen/2024/05/16/the-new-menopause-dr-mary-claire-haver-on-shame-and-stigma-free-aging/
Menopause, Memory & Mental Health | The ‘Pause Blog. (2024, October 3). The ‘Pause Life byDr.MaryClaireHaver.
https://thepauselife.com/blogs/the-pause-blog/menopause-memory-mental-health
Mosconi, L., Berti, V., Dyke, J., Schelbaum, E., Jett, S., Loughlin, L., Jang, G., Rahman, A., Hristov, H., Pahlajani, S., Andrews, R., Matthews, D., Etingin, O., Ganzer, C., de Leon, M., Isaacson, R., & Brinton, R. D. (2021). Menopause impacts human brain structure, connectivity, energy metabolism, and amyloid-beta deposition. Scientific reports, 11(1), 10867.
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-90084-y
Misconi, L., & Weill Cornell Medicine. (2023). Menopause impacts human brain structure , connectivity, energy metabolism, and amyloid-beta deposition. Scientific Reports. Retrieved from https://nature.com/articles/s41598-023-42112-5
Mosconi, L., & Weill Cornell Medicine. (2024). Scans Show Brain’s Estrogen Activity Changes During Menopause. WCM Newsroom; Weill Cornell Medicine. https://news.weill.cornell.edu/news/2024/06/scans-show-brains-estrogen-activity-changes-during-menopause#:~:text=Credit%3A%20Mosconi%20lab.,researchers%20at%20Weill%20Cornell%20Medicine.
NHS Choices 2024
Symptoms-Menopause. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/symptoms/
World. (2022, October 17). Menopause. Who.int; World Health Organization: WHO.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/menopause
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