If you’re wondering what menopause looks like, this is it!
Brain fog 🤷 ”So far this month, I’ve forgotten to pay two bills, order my prescription, missed a meeting at work and left my keys in the car… twice.”
Mood swings 😡 ”Sometimes I turn into a dragon.”
Hot flushes 🔥 ”They’re like a volcano explosion.”
Facial hair 👉 “It’s growing in new places.”
In a recent survey, we asked more than 500 UK women to share their experiences of menopause – and they didn’t hold back!
The good news is, there are positives to be found – and with knowledge, comes power!
Preparing for menopause
For so many women, menopause symptoms come like a bolt from the blue and if we’re being honest, sometimes it’s hard.
“No one tells you anything when you are younger.”
“I knew nothing, so it was just BOOM.”
Menopause is a natural phase of life that every woman goes through, yet it remains something people don’t always feel comfortable talking about:
- 50% of the survey respondents said they talk to close friends and family
- 1 in 4 can talk to a medical professional
- 1 in 10 don’t feel comfortable talking to anyone.
A lack of libido, a sore dry vagina, sleep disturbance, incontinence & urine leaks and were all cited as experiences that women find particularly difficult to discuss.
But Issviva is here to help and we’re launching our new ‘This is Me’ campaign to educate, empower and equip women for this phase of life.
Throughout the campaign, we’ll be sharing real-life stories to offer open, honest and balanced perspectives providing reassurance that there are highs as well as lows throughout the menopause journey.
Positives of Menopause
Some might be surprised to hear that menopause has its positives, but our survey respondents were quick to see the upside (and there’s a bit of a theme).
“Glad the hormones are departing. Glad I can’t get pregnant. Pretty happy!”
“Life is definitely easier without periods and contraception, that is definitely a huge positive.”
“I had read about reduced sex drive but I’m the opposite.”
“It’s so much easier not having to worry about periods for swimming.”
As well as saying goodbye and good riddance to periods, many of the respondents said they’d discovered a newfound strength during menopause 💪
“I am a stronger character than I realised.”
“I came through feeling a little shaken but strong.”
The Power of Connection 🧘
Several of the respondents said they have also learned to prioritize self-care and engage in open conversations about symptoms and feelings.
“I decided to look after myself better and have more me time.”
“I’m confident I can get through this stage of my life with help and kindness to myself.”
“I don’t get embarrassed about things I can’t control and that are only natural.”
And whilst 90% aren’t yet part of a support group, those who were found something truly special:
“I discovered an online community of others going through peri/menopause which has led to great joy and friendships.”
“I felt strong sharing this experience with other women.”
“I try to talk and laugh about my symptoms.”
A valuable source
Issviva is a menopause community created to connect women who are going through the menopause journey. Our goal is to break barriers and open conversations to support women in taking control of this phase of their lives. Every woman’s experience is different, which is why we have teamed up with a variety of experts to provide our community with the most up-to-date advice, information, and tips for navigating this new journey.
Our expert advisors cover a range of areas including sleep, nutrition, gynaecology, and aesthetics, and they are here to help you. If you want to learn more and connect with other women going through the same experience, you can find expert support through our blog and closed Facebook group.
Using your voice
It’s time to re-write the narrative around menopause. Let’s make this a shared journey. By speaking up and embracing the changes, women everywhere will find it easier to navigate the challenges together.
You can help by telling your story. Why not share something honest and brave about your experiences with menopause tagging @issvivamenopause and #ConfidenceInMe.
And remember, you’re not alone – there’s strength in vulnerability.
You deserve to be you!
*Survey of 540 women carried out in September 2023.
