Why the Silence?
Menopause has been a taboo subject for so long that most women enter perimenopause with almost no practical knowledge of what to expect. A 2021 survey found that 45% of women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms didn't recognise them as such. They thought they were developing anxiety, depression, early dementia, or simply "losing it." The silence is not neutral, it causes real harm.
The Full Symptom Picture
The standard list, hot flushes, night sweats, irregular periods, barely scratches the surface. Perimenopausal women commonly experience: cognitive changes (brain fog, memory lapses), joint pain, increased urinary frequency or urgency, skin changes (dryness, itching), hair thinning, palpitations, heightened anxiety or low mood, reduced libido, vaginal dryness, and weight redistribution. Many of these symptoms are treated as unrelated issues by GPs who miss the underlying hormonal picture.
The Case for HRT
Hormone replacement therapy has been unfairly maligned since the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study, which was later found to have significant methodological problems. Current evidence from updated analyses shows that HRT started within 10 years of menopause, or before age 60, is safe for most women, effective for symptom relief, and may reduce risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and cognitive decline. The benefits-to-risks ratio is favourable for the majority of perimenopausal and menopausal women.
Having the Conversation
Talk to your daughters, sisters, friends, and colleagues. Talk to your GP, and if they dismiss your symptoms as "just getting older," ask for a referral to a menopause specialist. Normalise the transition. Every woman who menstruates will experience menopause. The fact that half the population goes through a major hormonal transition with so little preparation or support is a public health failure we can collectively change.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is written for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.
Dr. Lisa Park
MD, FACOG
All TryHerCare articles are written and reviewed by qualified medical professionals. Our content is clinician-reviewed to ensure accuracy and clinical relevance.
