Breaking Down Menopause Myths for Everyone to Understand.

Let’s make these menopause myths easy for everyone to grasp.

Recently, a Facebook user boldly claimed, “There’s no such thing as menopause.” Well, that’s pants on fire o! Menopause is as real as jollof rice at a Nigerian party. In this article, we’ll dive into the facts about menopause, debunk myths, grab your zobo and puff-puff, and let’s get started!

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles. It’s diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period and usually occurs in women in their 40s or 50s. In Nigeria, the average age of menopause is around 51 years.

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause comes with a variety of symptoms, some of which can be quite challenging. Here are the most common ones:

1. Hot Flashes: Imagine NEPA taking light in the middle of a hot afternoon. That’s how sudden and intense hot flashes can feel.
   
   
   
   
2. Night Sweats: Waking up drenched in sweat, like you just ran a marathon in your sleep.
3. Mood Swings: One minute you’re happy like you just won a jackpot, the next you’re as angry as a Lagos driver in traffic.
4. Sleep Problems: Tossing and turning like you’re trying to find the perfect spot on a mat.
   
   
   
5. Weight Gain: The struggle to keep fit becomes real, like trying to resist an extra helping of suya.

Debunking Myths About Menopause

Myth 1: Menopause is a Disease Menopause is not a disease; it’s a natural phase of life. It’s like saying amala is a disease because it makes you full. Menopause is just a transition.

Myth 2: Only Women Experience Menopause While menopause is specific to women, men can experience a similar phase called andropause. It’s like comparing jollof rice to fried rice – different but somewhat similar.

Myth 3: Menopause Means the End of Your Sex Life This is as false as saying there’s no traffic in Lagos. Many women continue to have a healthy sex life during and after menopause. Communication and understanding with your partner are key.

Myth 4: Menopause Happens Overnight Menopause is a gradual process. It’s like cooking beans – it takes time. The transition period, known as perimenopause, can last several years.

Managing Menopause Symptoms

Here are some tips to manage menopause symptoms effectively:

1. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help. Think of it as fueling your body with the right ingredients, like making the perfect pot of jollof rice.
   
   
   
2. Regular Exercise: Staying active can reduce symptoms. Even a daily walk can make a difference. It’s like taking a stroll in the evening breeze after a hot day.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps manage hot flashes and night sweats. Keep your water bottle handy, like you would your phone charger.
4. Stress Management: Practices like yoga, meditation, or even listening to your favorite Afrobeat tunes can help reduce stress.
5. Medical Advice: Consult your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options. It’s like asking your mama for her secret recipe – sometimes you need expert guidance.

The Importance of Support

Menopause can be a challenging time, but support from family and friends can make a big difference. Imagine having your own cheerleading squad, ready to lift your spirits when you’re feeling down.

Menopause is a natural part of life, and it’s important to approach it with understanding and humor. By debunking myths and sharing facts, we can help women navigate this transition with confidence. So, the next time someone says, “There’s no such thing as menopause,” you can confidently say, “That’s pants on fire o!”

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Menopause. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic
2. National Institute on Aging. (2023). Menopause: What is Menopause? Retrieved from NIA

By following these tips and embracing the journey with a smile, women can navigate menopause with grace and humour. Remember, menopause is just another chapter in the beautiful story of life. Cheers to all the amazing women out there!

: Mayo Clinic. (2023). Menopause. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic