In all honesty, the menopause transition can feel like a roller coaster of hell for many women. My journey through menopause has been wrought with a good amount of confusion and a return to that feeling of being my 12-year-old self, half excited and half full of dread of what’s to come.
Menopause certainly gets a bad rap, so I wondered if there was some good to come out of this time of a woman’s life. Can there be a hidden “gift” of menopause, as my recent podcast guest, Jeanne Andrus talked to me about?
The Hidden Gifts of Menopause
No More Periods: As a reminder, you are officially in menopause when you have not had your period in a year. Therefore, menopause marks the end of monthly periods, which can be a relief for many women who no longer have to deal with the inconvenience, discomfort, and associated expenses of menstruation.
Freedom from Birth Control: With menopause, the need for birth control methods diminishes or disappears, which can provide a sense of freedom from contraceptive concerns
Reduced Risk of Certain Health Issues: While menopause might mean an increase in risk of some health issues, such as heart disease and osteoperosis, menopause can also mean a decrease in the risk of certain reproductive health issues, such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis, which tend to decrease. Additionally, the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers also decreases.
No More PMS and Hormonal Fluctuations: This one is a personal favorite for me. Menopause brings an end to the hormonal fluctuations that can contribute to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), mood swings, and other emotional and physical symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle.
Potential Increase in Energy: Some women report feeling increased energy levels after going through menopause, as they are no longer experiencing the hormonal fluctuations that can sometimes lead to fatigue and mood swings.
Personal Growth and Empowerment: Menopause can be seen as a natural transition that signifies a new phase of life. It can prompt introspection and personal growth as individuals navigate changes and challenges, potentially leading to increased self-awareness and empowerment.
Focus on Self-Care: With the end of the reproductive years, some women find themselves with more time and energy to focus on self-care, pursuing hobbies, traveling, and engaging in activities they enjoy.
Shift in Priorities: Menopause can prompt a shift in priorities as individuals focus on their own well-being and personal goals, without the demands of raising children or dealing with the challenges of reproductive health. As Jeanne said in our podcast, we have decades of life to still live, let’s make them the healthiest they can be!
It’s important to note that experiences of menopause can vary widely among individuals. While some may experience these positive aspects, others may also face challenges such as hot flashes, mood changes, and potential health concerns. If you are going through menopause and need help with this transition, support is here for you! Reach out HERE to set up a time to talk.
