"Very important that we normalise talking about menopause"

Tuesday 29 June 2021

Severe symptoms of the menopause go massively underreported, according to specialists, who say the subject needs to become easier for women to speak openly about.

More than 100 people attended three free events this month hosted by Queens Road Medical Practice about the menopause.

The ‘making sense of the menopause’ educational talks, presented by Dr Petra du Plessis, discussed the menopause process, symptoms, treatment options and how it is diagnosed.

The menopause is when a woman stops having periods and ovaries stop producing eggs. According to the NHS this usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, as oestrogen levels decline.

“The menopause is a natural part of ageing, and it happens to all women, yet it isn’t widely spoken about,” said Dr du Plessis.

"Less than half of women will seek help from their doctor"

“According to a survey carried out by menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson, four out of five women report experiencing symptoms and one in four will have severe symptoms, yet less than half will seek help from their doctor.

"It is very important that we normalise talking about the menopause to help raise awareness and encourage those experiencing symptoms to seek support if they need it.”

The presentation highlighted how employers can offer flexible working arrangements and workplace adjustment. Making lifestyle changes such as exercising more and changing diet as well as treatment options, including prescribed medication and complementary therapies, were also discussed in the hour-long events.

“We originally planned for one event at the Queens Road surgery but so many people signed up we moved location to accommodate a larger audience and held a further two events as there was so much interest which demonstrates that this is a topic that people want to learn more about,” said Dr du Plessis.

“I hope these events have helped to inform attendees and have given them the knowledge and confidence to speak about the menopause more openly.”