Menopause Network

Posted by Nina Raoult

18 March 2024

We had a fascinating and open discussion about menopause – it was a fantastic opportunity to discuss as a community this transition covering a range of different experiences between those having gone through it, going through it and not there yet!

Sarah started by highlighting the importance of normalising discussions about menopause, removing taboos around the subject. We now talk openly about periods and child birth, menopause is an other transition most of us will experience. By normalising discussions, it becomes easier to deal with and may us help identify symptoms as menopause symptoms (over which there are over 40!), which we might otherwise assign to other conditions (e.g., anxiety). Although the average age of menopause is 52, there is a huge range of ages at which it can occur. Sarah also highlighted the importance of looking out for others to offer help and make adjustments, without making a big fuss about it. Menopause affects everyone in work place – when you are unwell it will impact your work, so it’s in the workplace’s interest that you are well supported.

We discussed different treatments, including HRT (hormone replacement therapy) under gels and patches, as well as general life changes in food and exercise. We discussed the fact that since “Menopause” is still an option module in doctors’ training, it can be worth getting a second opinion or try to get referred to a specialist, especially given the fact that blood tests used to detect menopause are not always accurate.

We talked about some resources, like recently the “Zoe website” has covered diet and exercise for menopause, as well as the support offered by the different networks. These networks allow members to get together and generally laugh about what they’re going through (e.g., putting keys in the freezer!).

Menopause network at the Met Office: Menopause Network Comms Site – Home (sharepoint.com)

Menopause network at the University: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/staff/wellbeing/othersupport/menopause/

Other resources:

Home – Henpicked

Menopause Matters, menopausal symptoms, remedies, advice

Closing tips:

Don’t feel guilty, and learn to put yourself first – you are not replaceable.
Don’t forget it’s a transition, not permanent – everything will be fine when you come out the other end!
Listen to your body – only you will know what it’s trying to say
We would adopt the Japanese mentality and see it as the “Second Spring”