Understanding Menopause
Menopause is a natural transition that typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although experiences vary. It is marked by the end of menstruation and a decline in reproductive hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. Despite being a universal stage of life for women, menopause is often misunderstood, leading to myths and misconceptions that affect how people approach their wellness, lifestyle, and even skincare choices.
These myths can create confusion and stigma, leaving many unsure of what to expect or how best to support themselves during menopause or perimenopause. In this article, we’ll break down the top five menopause myths and uncover the truth behind them.
To read more about menopause and when it can occur, please see our-in depth blog here.
Napiers offer various services that aim to support your perimenopause or menopause with practical, personalised wellness strategies. Book a free 15 minute 1:1 consultation with our team of passionate herbalists to receive personalised guidance based on your individual health profile.
Myth 1: Menopause is the same for everyone
Many people are led to believe that menopause follows the same path for all women. In reality, the experience can vary greatly. Some may notice only subtle changes, while others face more challenging symptoms such as mood shifts, weight changes, or disrupted sleep. Even perimenopause – the transitional phase leading up to menopause – differs widely in both length and intensity. This makes personalised support and awareness especially important.
According to the NHS[1], menopause can bring a wide range of possible symptoms, including:
- Changes to mood
- Problems with memory or concentration (brain fog)
- Hot flushes
- Difficulty sleeping
- Palpitations
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle and joint pain
- Skin changes including dry and itchy skin
Recognising the broad scope of symptoms helps women better understand their own experience, normalises the wide range of possibilities, and highlights the importance of finding support that suits their individual journey.
Myth 2: Menopause only affects women physically
A common misconception about menopause is that it only affects the body physically. While hot flushes, night sweats, and changes in skin texture are well-known physical symptoms, menopause can also influence emotional balance as well as mental wellbeing. Recognising this holistic impact is important to ensure supportive care that goes beyond managing physical changes alone.
For example, some women notice changes in memory and concentration, commonly known as "brain fog" – discover natural ways to sharpen focus during menopause.
Others find that fatigue becomes more common – explore why tiredness can increase during menopause and what may help you feel more balanced.
Myth 3: Menopause always means severe hot flushes
Hot flushes are often seen as the defining feature of menopause, but not everyone experiences them – and for some, they are mild. Other symptoms, such as brain fog, joint stiffness, or changes in skin health, can be just as significant. By understanding the full spectrum of possible experiences, we can move away from stereotypes and better support individual needs.
Learn more about hot flushes, including what they are, why they happen, and supportive ways to manage them, in this guide.
Myth 4: Menopause marks the end to vitality
Another damaging misconception is that menopause signals a decline in overall wellbeing. In reality, rather than viewing this change negatively, many people use this stage as an opportunity to refocus on health, balance, and self-care. Regular activity, balanced nutrition, and supportive skincare or supplements can all play a role in maintaining vitality. Rather than an ending, menopause can be a stage of renewal, empowerment, and positive lifestyle change.
Supplements for Menopause:
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Magnesium – valued for its role in supporting energy-levels, easing muscle and joint discomfort, and promoting relaxation. Many women explore magnesium to support restful sleep and ease everyday tension during menopause.
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CoQ10 – a naturally occurring compound that supports cellular energy and is sometimes chosen to help combat fatigue. As antioxidant levels can change with age, CoQ10 is also appreciated for its role in overall vitality.
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Omega-3 fatty acids – also found in fish oil and flaxseed, these healthy fats are appreciated for supporting overall wellbeing, especially heart and brain health.
- Vitamin D – important for bone health and immune function; many people explore it during menopause as natural levels can decline with age.
Herbal Remedies for Menopause:
- Sage – traditionally valued as a cooling herb, containing natural phytoestrogens that may help support healthy oestrogen balance. It is also rich in rosmarinic acid and essential oils, known for their calming properties and circulation-boosting effects
- Ashwagandha – an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to support the body’s stress response by helping to regulate cortisol levels and other stress-related hormones. It has also been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation, strengthen immune function, and support healthy libido – areas often affected during hormonal changes.
- Black Cohosh – one of the most highly regarded herbs for menopause, known for supporting hormone balance as well as mood and emotional wellbeing.
To discover more herbal remedies for menopause, read our blog here.
Myth 5: There are no skincare options to support hormone balance
One common myth is that skincare has no role to play during menopause. While it cannot influence hormone levels, the right skincare can help maintain comfort and balance. As hormones fluctuate, the transition into menopause often brings about skin changes, with decreased elasticity, dryness, and wrinkles being common concerns. A gentle, supportive skincare routine can make a meaningful difference to how skin feels throughout this stage of life.
Napiers Wild Yam Skin Cream is a trusted herbal option that has been used for generations. Made with wild yam root extract, rich in naturally occurring diosgenin, it has been traditionally valued for supporting natural balance during life’s transitions, including menopause and perimenopause. The cream nourishes and hydrates dry or mature skin, while calendula and aloe provide soothing hydration. It also contains vitamin E for skin support and is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
While skincare does not replace medical advice, using botanical creams such as wild yam can offer comfort and hydration during menopause and perimenopause.
If you’re exploring supportive options, you may also be interested in other natural ingredients for menopause skincare.
Key Takeaways
- Menopause is highly individual – no two experiences are alike.
- It can affect emotional and mental wellbeing, not just physical health.
- Hot flushes are common but not universal.
- Wellness and balance are achievable throughout menopause and beyond.
- Botanical skincare, such as wild yam cream, can support comfort and hydration.
FAQs
Can menopause cause dizziness?
Yes, some women experience dizziness during menopause.
When does menopause end?
It ends after 12 months without a period, moving into post-menopause.
Can menopause cause high blood pressure?
Not directly, but hormonal changes and age can raise the risk.
Does menopause affect mental health?
Yes, hormonal shifts can influence mood, sleep, and cognitive clarity.
Is menopause the same as perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, when symptoms may begin due to fluctuating hormone levels. Menopause is defined as 12 months without a menstrual period.
For more guidance and answers, explore are menopause FAQs page.
References
- NHS. Conditions – Menopause Symptoms. Available at: NHS.
