Alright, ladies, gather round. Because today we’re talking about the official moment when perimenopause ends and menopause steps in, wearing sunglasses and carrying a big ol’ suitcase full of hormonal change. Yep, it’s the day your period completely disappears and doesn’t come back for 12 straight months.
No texts. No visits. No, “just popping in” for one last go. Nothing. Nada. That’s menopause.
So, When Does Menopause Actually Happen?
For most women, it shows up somewhere between ages 45 and 55, with the average being about 51. But this isn’t like clocking into work, everyone’s body has its own internal schedule, and sometimes it’s fashionably early… or dramatically late.
You don’t get a heads-up. No fireworks. No goodbye note from your uterus. You only know you’ve officially entered menopause when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. That’s it, no spotting, no “Oh wait, just one more!” moments. When the periods stop and stay stopped, you’ve crossed the hormonal threshold.
And if you’re tracking your cycle and thinking, “Hmm, it’s been a while,” don’t get too excited just yet. The body loves a dramatic encore. So keep an eye on things and talk to your doctor if you’re unsure.
But Wait, What If You’ve Had a Hysterectomy?
Ah, yes, let’s talk medical menopause, because not all journeys come with the same map. If you’ve had a total hysterectomy (like I have, thanks, Cancer, you passive-aggressive little gremlin), and especially if your ovaries were removed too, you go straight into menopause.
No perimenopause. No “slow glide” into the hormone rollercoaster. Just bam! Welcome to the deep end.
When the ovaries are removed, your estrogen and progesterone production drops off a cliff, and symptoms can hit harder and faster. This can feel intense, physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s not just “the change,” it’s a full-on hormonal plot twist. If this is you, know that support exists, and you’re not alone. There are ways to ease the impact (HRT, lifestyle adjustments, therapy, and just talking about it like we’re doing now).
What’s Actually Going On in Your Body?
Whether it happens naturally or surgically, here’s what’s shifting:
- Your ovaries retire, no more eggs, no more estrogen/progesterone production
- Periods stop (like, really stop)
- Hormones drop, triggering a long list of potential symptoms
- You may notice: hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, dry skin, weight shifts, low libido, joint pain, sleep problems, and a LOT of “Where did I put my phone/keys/pants?” moments
But don’t panic, symptoms vary hugely from person to person. Some breeze through, others feel like they’re in a 24/7 game of hormonal whack-a-mole.
Real Talk: How to Cope with the Changes
Menopause might be a natural phase, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Here are some real-world ways to support your body and mind during the shift:
- Talk to your GP about options like HRT (hormone replacement therapy), especially if symptoms are impacting your daily life.
- Layer up! Hot flashes are no joke, so dress in breathable fabrics and have a fan on standby. Honestly, they should issue us one at the door.
- Sleep like it’s your job, easier said than done, I know. Try magnesium, avoid screens before bed, and maybe wind down with something calming (a bath, chamomile tea, or your favourite trashy novel).
- Move your body. Even a 20-minute walk can boost mood, regulate weight changes, and help with bone health.
- Keep your cool (emotionally). You’re not losing your mind, your hormones are just throwing a disco in your bloodstream. Journaling, therapy, meditation, or just venting to a friend can help.
- Hydrate. You need more water than you think, especially when your skin and hormones are drying out faster than a raisin in the Sahara.
Is It All Doom and Gloom?
Absolutely not. Sure, menopause isn’t always fun, and yes, it can feel like your body’s writing a script you didn’t sign off on. But this phase? It’s also about power. Wisdom. Confidence. Rediscovering what you want. And (let’s be real) never having to buy tampons again is a small victory worth toasting.
You don’t become invisible, you become invincible. Okay, maybe with a few extra night sweats, but you get the idea.
Things to Start Thinking About Now:
- Bone Health: With lower estrogen, your bones may need extra love. Think calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise.
- Heart Health: Estrogen is kind to your ticker; once it’s gone, heart health deserves more attention.
- Mental Well-being: Mood dips and anxiety are real. It’s not all in your head, but it is in your hormones.
- HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy): For many women, it’s a game-changer. For others, it’s not right. Always chat with a professional about what’s safe and effective for you.
What’s Next?
Next week we’re talking symptoms, the common, the surprising, the “Wait, is that menopause too?!” stuff. Trust me, you’ll want to know.
Got a question or want to share your story (especially if, like me, your menopause journey came courtesy of surgery or illness)? Drop me a comment over at Facebook – Mylifeandstyleover40, we’re not doing this alone.
Stay tuned, stay curious, and keep your fan and your sense of humour handy. 😉
Take care, stay safe.
Becks xo
My life and style over 40 