The 5 Common Myths About Menopause

Biologically speaking, menopause occurs when a woman hasn't menstruated in 12 consecutive months and can no longer become pregnant. This usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55, but can develop earlier or later the average age range.

Conversationally, however, menopause has often been misrepresented with various myths regarding its onset and symptoms. Natural symptoms are uncomfortable and may included hot flashes and weight gain. Some myths however tend to exaggerate these effects or express it in an unscientific light. 

Here are 5 of the many myths associated with the term:

Begins Once Periods Stop
Technically, it can't be menopause unless you haven't had a period for row of 12 months. Before that, you'll likely experience irregular periods first during perimenopause, also called as the menopause transition. Women start their perimenopause at different ages and may notice signs of progression toward menopause, such as menstrual irregularity, sometime in their 40s or earlier.

Makes You Irritable

Menopause in of itself doesn't alter mood. However, some of the symptoms, such as night sweats and hot flashes, can affect with the quality of your sleep and lead to feelings of sadness. Engaging in creative and community outlets during the day, and lifestyle changes help to better manage our fluctuating emotions.

Makes You Gain Weight

The decrease in estrogen levels in menopausal women can often be associated with the loss of pounds, but weight gain isn't always a given. Our metabolism also naturally slows as we age, which leads to weight gain in areas of our body.  Exercise will help to balance this out and can boost metabolism as well. 

Makes You More Forgetful

It's normal to feel a bit foggier during perimenopause as ncreased stress that sometimes accompanies this stage of life may also have you feeling distracted. Menopause, on the other hand, doesn't directly cause memory loss. Memory problems at the age of onset may more likely be due to our brains as it ages. Brain exercises like puzzles, word games and reading help to train our brains to stay active.

Need to Take Hormones

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is just one tool for alleviating menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However, HRT has risks as well as benefits. Inquire with your doctor regarding the matter. Doctors may recommend other ways to ease the symptoms such as relaxation techniques, vaginal lubes, and lifestyle changes like exercise and diet 

At the end of the day, menopause is a natural biological process. The physical symptoms, such as hot flashes, and emotional symptoms of menopause, however, may disrupt your sleep, lower your energy and affect emotional health leading to other issues.

There are many effective treatments available, from lifestyle adjustments, relaxation practices, or medications approved by doctors. KPTown currently offers a stock of Estroven at 26% off, formulated to manage stress and fatigue while providing relief for hot flashes and night sweats.