It seems like we have a special day for everything these days. So do we even need a World Menopause Day? Yes, seemingly so. Menopause or menopause is not a sexy topic and there still seems to be some kind of taboo on it. Many women have no idea what is happening or what to expect during this period. This also makes it difficult for their environment (family, employers, etc.) to deal with it adequately. Resulting in misunderstanding, sadness and absenteeism. And that's a shame, so let's talk about it. 100% of all women who started menstruating at some point also enter menopause. 20% of women cycle through that without any problems. So that means 80% of women do have symptoms. Of these, about a third experience severe symptoms that seriously disrupt their regular functioning.

Due to fluctuations in hormone levels, various processes in the body are disrupted or begin to run differently. Menopause is actually a kind of reverse puberty. And just like puberty, this process does not go the same way or at the same pace for every woman. Often your mother's transition can give a good indication of what to expect. Provided you can talk to her about it. Even then, there are no guarantees.

When people think of menopause symptoms, they usually think of hot flashes. This is indeed a common and very annoying complaint. Other physical complaints may include bleeding, night sweats, painful breasts, headaches, stiffness, changing body odor, etc. In addition to physical complaints, psychological complaints can also arise, such as: being emotional, anxious, insecure, gloomy, hot-tempered, no desire to “care,” difficulty concentrating, and more. Burnout symptoms can also sometimes be (partially) related to the transition.

The transition is inevitable. It is perhaps somewhat ingrained in our culture that we should not be too difficult about it. It's just the way it is, don't whine and move on. But knowing what is going on can give a lot of peace of mind. That is why it is important to pay attention to it, break the taboo and talk about it. Especially if you have complaints. Immerse yourself in it. There is a lot to be found on the Internet and in books. Talk to your mother, your sister and your friends. If you think it's necessary, feel free to see your family doctor or get a referral to a gynecologist. There is medication. Some swear by it and others don't like it. Figure out what you want. Are you stuck at work? Do you doubt you are still in your place? Maybe your supervisor would like to think with you or see a career coach.

Again; all women who once started menstruating go through menopause. So you are not the only one and it is very normal. It is a period of changes. And that can also be positive 😉.