Menopause: Two Key Focus Areas

It is wonderful that the Menopause is now a topic widely covered in lots of articles and discussions. Like any other major event in human life, the more these topics are brought out into the open, the more we learn and understand.

Menopause: A Major Milestone

There’s no doubt about it — menopause is a major transition in every woman’s life.

Even if you breezed through it, your body isn’t quite the same afterwards.

A common misconception is that once symptoms ease, menopause is “over”. In reality, women remain in menopause for the next three to four decades of their lives.

And for anyone thinking, “I’m not that old!” – Perimenopause can begin as early as the late 30s or early 40s, with some women experiencing early menopause in their 30s.

Why It Matters?

Over 10 years ago when I began my Women’s Health training, I was shocked by how much I didn’t know.

We rely on oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone not just for fertility, but for healthy brains, bones, muscles, joints, mood and energy.

As these hormones decline during perimenopause and menopause, a wide range of symptoms can appear. But beyond hot flushes or changes in mood, there are deeper and lesser-discussed impacts:

• Dementia risk is higher in women and strongly linked to menopause.
• Osteoporosis, also connected to menopause, can cause chronic back and joint pain and increase the risk of fractures.

Understanding how menopause affects the whole body helps us protect our long-term health and wellbeing.

Two Key Focus Areas

Rather than listing symptoms, let’s look at two areas that make a significant difference to how women can thrive through menopause and beyond.

1. Resistance Training & Exercise

As oestrogen levels fall, bone density decreases, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
From your late 30s onwards, lifting weights, walking, running, or any weight-bearing movement becomes essential to protect your bones.

Despite women being at greatest risk of osteoporosis, awareness remains low. As we live longer, taking action early can prevent fractures, spinal changes, and posture issues later on.

2. Brain Care

Many menopausal symptoms — poor sleep, mood swings, brain fog, headaches, or hot flushes — are linked to the brain.
Oestrogen and progesterone help keep the nervous system calm and balanced. As these hormones fluctuate, the brain must adapt to a new rhythm.

Support your brain and nervous system by:

• Getting outside daily and practising deep breathing
• Reducing stress and screen time
• Following a Mediterranean-style diet rich in oils, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables
• Moving your body and building strength to boost energy and regulate temperature

Considering HRT

The modern approach to HRT is a world away from what was used 20–30 years ago. Unfortunately, many media reports still refer back to old research, sharing information that’s now outdated.

Today’s HRT options are much safer — most are taken through the skin, allowing hormones to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This method bypasses the major organs, significantly reducing the risk of blood clots and potential organ damage.

The decision to take HRT is personal and should always be discussed with your GP.

For accurate, up-to-date information, visit credible sources such as:

• The British Menopause Society
• The Menopause Charity

Avoid relying on social media or general press, where information can be incomplete or misleading.

Want to Learn More?

I regularly run Menopause Workshops that focus on the positives — helping women understand what’s happening in their bodies and find practical ways to manage symptoms and thrive. If you’d like to attend or would like me to run another session, please get in touch.