Menopause: What It Really Means for Your Body
Menopause. It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot – but do we really understand what it means for our health, our hormones and our future?
Let’s start with the basics: menopause literally means “end of monthly cycles” in Greek. It marks a moment in time – specifically, the point at which you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. After that, you’re officially post-menopausal. The average age for this milestone is 51.
The term “menopause” was only coined in 1821 by a French doctor. At that time, the average life expectancy for women was just 47. Fast forward to today, and many of us can expect to spend a third of our lives in the post-menopausal stage. That’s not just significant – it’s empowering. Because with knowledge and support, we can thrive during this chapter.
Your Body Runs on Oestrogen (and It’s Not Just About Periods)
Oestrogen is often associated with reproductive health, but its role in the body goes far beyond periods and fertility. We have oestrogen receptors not just in the ovaries and breasts but in the brain, bones, heart, lungs, kidneys, gut, and even the cells lining our blood vessels.
When oestrogen levels drop – whether naturally with age or for other reasons – the effects ripple through the body. Bone density, cardiovascular health, mood, skin, and even memory can all be affected.
But here’s the good news: understanding this shift is the first step toward navigating it with strength, grace, and confidence.
“Midlife is not the beginning of the end. It’s the beginning of something else entirely – a new era of wisdom, clarity, and power.” – Unknown
Why This Matters
At The Verve Clinic, we believe menopause isn’t something to be feared. It’s a powerful transition that deserves understanding and support. It’s about learning to work with your body instead of feeling like you’re at war with it.
If you’ve been struggling with your hormone health book in a call and see how we can help.