3 Menopause Myths You Should Stop Believing

Let’s face it: the prospect of going through menopause can be intimidating. For women who have spent their adult lives boldly managing their families and/or careers, the idea of not being in control of their own bodies can be uncomfortable.

Despite the fact that around half the people on this planet will go through menopause, there are still a lot of menopause myths flying around that can make this time of transition even more daunting. We set out to debunk three of the most common menopause myths, so that you can be better prepared without the anxiety that can come with a changing body.

1). Menopause Myth: Most women gain a lot of weight after menopause.

Fact: A recent study conducted by the International Menopause Society showed that although the hormonal changes associated with menopause can cause women to carry more weight in their abdomen, actual weight gain was influenced by non-hormonal factors like diet and exercise. So while you might not be able to control where your fat is distributed, you still have control over whether you gain that weight in the first place. If you’re concerned about weight gain or looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle, talk to you doctor to create a plan that works for you.

2). Menopause Myth: Women lose interest in sex after menopause.

Fact: While it’s true that some women may experience a decreased libido after menopause, many women find their postmenopausal sex life to be more fulfilling than ever. If your desire is normal, but vaginal dryness is holding you back, using a personal lubricant like Astroglide Gel can help sex feel comfortable again. (Want to see if Astroglide will work for you? Request a free sample!)

If you are concerned about your sex drive, talk to your doctor to explore your options and to rule out more serious conditions. No matter what, don’t assume that menopause means the end of your sex life. You deserve to be getting it on well into your golden years.

3). Menopause Myth: Unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause are inevitable.

Fact: Menopause affects every woman differently. While some women do experience the classic symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, mood changes and vaginal dryness, other women move through this transition with little to no unpleasant symptoms. So if menopause is on the horizon for you, don’t assume the worst. Educating yourself and being proactive in addressing your symptoms as they appear is the best way to prepare yourself for this new chapter in your life.

Just because menopause might change your body doesn’t mean that you have to change who you are. If you find yourself feeling different during or after menopause, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor -- there might be some way that they’ll be able to help.