As you leave your mid-forties behind, you will experience an irregular menstrual cycle, hot flashes sometimes, mood swings, and changes in your body shape and composition. It indirectly hints at only one thing – you are nearing that time of your life when you will undergo the menopausal transition. Let’s get acquainted with what’s not known about menopause.

• Menopause is a gradual process involving many hormonal and physiological changes and it doesn’t happen at once. You are in the perimenopausal phase before you reach menopause
• Menopause can cause osteoporosis. Estrogen helps to limit bone loss and as you age, your estrogen levels start dipping. You are losing more bone than rebuilding it. Intake of calcium supplements is helpful but you need to consult your gynaecologist beforehand
• Did you expect those hot flashes to just disappear after a while? Well, they might linger around anywhere between 6 months to 2 years and sometimes even after that. Exercising regularly, and finding the time to practice meditation can help you combat those flashes
• The menopausal period is when you need to be tough to face a lot of changes in your physical and mental health. From vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, night sweats, and decreased libido to erratic mood swings – you will experience it all
• No two women will experience the same symptoms of menopause. So what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you
• Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause can be treated. Have an open conversation with your gynaecologist. That way, the best course of action can be given to you

Menopause is a part of a woman’s life. It’s nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. It’s very important that you also talk to your partner about the changes you experience. It’s a bridge that you both need to cross together, for better or for worse, as you traverse through the journey of life.