5 Menopause Myths, Busted for World Menopause Day

World Menopause Day falls on 18 October each year, and it's a good excuse to clear up some of the more persistent myths about menopause, several of which we still hear regularly in consultations.

Myth: menopause is only something to worry about in your 60s.
Fact: the average age of menopause in Australia is 51, and perimenopause often starts in your 40s. Some people experience early menopause before 45.

Myth: hot flushes are the only symptom that matters.
Fact: the full symptom list is much longer, disrupted sleep, joint and muscle pain, brain fog, mood changes, reduced libido, anxiety and vaginal dryness are all common.

Myth: perimenopause is basically the same as "premenopause", nothing to take seriously yet.
Fact: perimenopause is its own distinct phase, and can last up to 10 years. Periods can still be happening, even semi-regularly, while hormonal changes are already driving real symptoms.

Myth: menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) isn't safe.
Fact: MHT carries both risks and benefits, and for healthy women near the age of menopause, the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing notes that benefits typically outweigh risks. It's a decision made with your GP, based on your individual history and symptoms.

Myth: quality of life just declines from here.
Fact: plenty of women report feeling more confident and settled after menopause, particularly once symptoms are properly managed.

Where does this leave you?

If any of these myths sound like assumptions you've been carrying, that's common, and it's exactly why a dedicated consult can be more useful than piecing information together yourself. Dr Rebecca Goodman offers the Embrace Menopause Signature Consult, a longer appointment built specifically around perimenopause and menopause. We've covered exactly what that consultation involves in a separate post, worth reading if you're ready to book one in.

Menopause deserves more than folklore. If something here rang true, that's worth a conversation, not a guess.

This article shares general health information and isn't a substitute for personalised medical advice.

FAQs

What is World Menopause Day?

An annual awareness day held on 18 October, run internationally by the International Menopause Society.

What's the average age of menopause in Australia?

51, though perimenopause often starts in your 40s.

Is hormone therapy (MHT) safe?

It carries both risks and benefits, and for healthy women near menopause age, benefits typically outweigh risks. It's an individual decision made with your GP.

What does the Embrace Menopause Signature Consult cover?

A longer, dedicated appointment with Dr Rebecca Goodman covering symptom history, treatment options and screening. Full details in the Menopause Care in Wollongong post.