A quick refresher: Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when menstruation ends—it occurs 12 months after her last period. It’s marked by a natural drop in reproductive hormones (estrogen and progesterone) that are produced by the ovaries. Collectively, the years leading up to the point of menopause are known as perimenopause, or menopausal transition, according to the Office on Women’s Health. The hormonal changes that happen during this time are responsible for irksome symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, and trouble sleeping, just to name a few. Menopause is completely normal and natural. But even still, it can be a confusing time for many women, especially if they’ve never spoken to female friends or relatives about it. Unfortunately, the conversation around menopause is pretty limited—which means there are a lot of myths and misconceptions floating around out there. To help you navigate this major (and inevitable!) life transition, we’re debunking some of the most common menopause myths, with the help of doctors and health pros. But take note: Your lifestyle habits can play a role. According to a 2020 study, regular physical activity can minimize the severity of menopausal symptoms. On the flipside, habits like smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can actually increase the frequency and severity of symptoms. Emotional stress has also been found to exacerbate menopausal symptoms, according to a 2021 study. That said, it’s never too late to fine-tune your habits in the name of managing menopause.
