Menopause: What to Expect, How to Talk to Your Doctor, and Finding What Works for You.
Somewhere between the hot flashes, the brain fog, and the “is this normal?” moments, menopause can feel like a bit of a mystery tour. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to muddle through in silence, and you definitely don’t have to accept feeling miserable as the new normal.
Misinformation around menopause is everywhere from miracle “cures” that promise to erase symptoms overnight, to myths that dismiss menopause as simply “the end of youth.” The truth is, menopause is a natural transition, not a disease, and while it can bring real challenges, it’s not something to be silenced or shamed. The danger of misinformation is that it leaves women unprepared, unheard, and sometimes untreated. That’s why it’s so important to seek out reliable sources, ask the right questions, and advocate for yourself in conversations with your doctor.
Common Symptoms of Menopause
(Not everyone experiences all of these and it is not exhaustive, but it’s good to know what might pop up): I went from sleeping 7 hours a night, to 2 hours if I was lucky, it was debilatating.
Hot flashes & night sweats
Irregular or heavy periods (leading up to menopause)
Sleep problems
Brain fog or memory lapses
Mood changes, anxiety, or low mood
Vaginal dryness or discomfort
Reduced libido
Joint aches, headaches, or fatigue
Every woman’s experience is different — some breeze through, others feel like they’ve been hit by a hormonal storm. Both are valid.
Talking to Your Doctor (and Being Heard)
This is where it can get tricky. Not all doctors are equally informed about menopause treatment. But you can advocate for yourself:
Keep a symptom diary — note when symptoms happen and how they affect your daily life.
Be specific — instead of “I’m tired,” say “I wake up 4–5 times a night drenched in sweat, and it’s affecting my work and mood.”
Bring questions — about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), non-hormonal treatments, and lifestyle changes.
Don’t be brushed off — if your doctor dismisses your symptoms, seek a second opinion. Your wellbeing matters, when I went to the doctors, I went with a diary of symptoms expecting a push back. I didn’t thankfully but I know that’s not everyone’s experience.
Treatment Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Choices include:
Hormonal Treatments (HRT):
Estrogen (with or without progesterone) can reduce hot flashes, protect bones, and improve mood/sleep.
Risks and benefits vary depending on your health history — talk through these carefully.
Non-Hormonal Options:
Certain antidepressants or medications can ease hot flashes.
Vaginal moisturizers/lubricants can help with dryness.
Lifestyle Approaches:
Balanced, unprocessed diet (think less UPF, more whole foods).
Regular movement (walking, yoga, strength training).
Stress management: meditation, journaling, or simply saying “no” more often.
Limiting alcohol, caffeine, and sugar (sorry, I know).
Final Thought
Menopause isn’t an ending, it’s a transition. Yes, it can be tough, but it can also be freeing. When we advocate for ourselves, talk openly, and explore the right treatments, we reclaim our energy, our confidence, and our joy.
I’ve linked some of the resources I used to help me make informed descions below.
I know she’s not everyone’s cup of tea but Davina McCall Menopausing is a well researched, easy read on the menopause.
and Dr Louise Newson The Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause
