For many women, menopause isn’t just about hot flushes and irregular periods—it’s the constant, unrelenting mental load of worrying about when and where the next symptom will strike.
Will I bleed through my clothes in the middle of a meeting? Will I forget someone’s name and feel humiliated? Will a sudden hot flush make me feel out of control? These aren’t just passing concerns; they become daily anxieties that weigh heavily on a woman’s mind, affecting her confidence, wellbeing and even career progression.
The Unspoken Stigma and Fear
Despite menopause being a natural transition, many women suffer in silence. Stigma keeps conversations behind closed doors, leaving women to navigate symptoms on their own. The fear of being perceived as ‘less capable’ in the workplace or ‘difficult’ at home compounds this stress, making an already challenging phase of life even harder to manage.
The Toll on Mental and Physical Health
The constant worry about symptoms doesn’t just affect mental wellbeing—it has real physiological impacts:
- Nervous System Overload: Chronic stress from managing symptoms keeps the nervous system in a state of high alert, leading to heightened anxiety and difficulty relaxing.
- Increased Cortisol Levels: Persistent stress contributes to an overproduction of cortisol, which disrupts sleep, increases weight gain (especially around the abdomen) and weakens the immune system.
- Heart Health Risks: The combination of stress and hormonal changes increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
- Compromised Immune Function: When the body is in a constant state of stress, immune function is compromised, making women more susceptible to illness.
- Cognitive Strain: Brain fog, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating are exacerbated by stress, making daily tasks feel overwhelming.
Breaking the Cycle: What Needs to Change?
- Normalising Conversations – Open discussions at home, in workplaces and in communities can help remove the stigma and allow women to seek support without fear.
- Workplace Adaptations – Employers need to provide education and implement flexible policies that acknowledge menopause-related challenges.
- Holistic Health Approaches – Strategies like mindfulness, nutrition, exercise and breathwork can help regulate the nervous system and mitigate stress.
- Better Access to Medical Support – Women need access to healthcare professionals who take their symptoms seriously and offer evidence-based solutions.
Empowering Women to Prioritise Their Health
Menopause shouldn’t be a period of fear and isolation. By acknowledging the mental load that women carry and advocating for systemic change, we can create a future where women feel supported, informed and empowered to thrive—not just survive—through menopause.
Now is the time to start talking, supporting and shifting the narrative. Because women deserve better.
Natalie and Lisa are championing women’s health, cycles and performance. We do this through innovative programs, expert education, and impactful conversations. They believe that life’s transitions—often seen as challenges—are opportunities to awaken strength, confidence, and vitality. Through holistic health coaching, they support women in embracing their unique life phases and unlocking their highest potential. Join their Unapologetic Self Care Coaching Program on March 3rd, learn more or book in here