Menopause can be a confusing and tough time for women, with symptoms like night sweats, hot flushes, and mood swings. Andrea McLean, a popular daytime TV presenter on ITV’s Loose Women, has written a book called Confessions of a Menopausal Woman to offer advice and support.
Andrea McLean is very passionate about talking about menopause because it’s often a taboo subject. She believes menopause is a significant part of every woman’s life and deserves more attention. Despite the stigma of menopause making women feel old and useless, she questions why society continues to judge women based on their menopausal status.
In 2016, McLean had a hysterectomy, which led to her entering early menopause. She’s been open about her surgery and menopausal symptoms, even experiencing them live on air.
Now at 49, she shares in her book that many women reached out to her for support regarding their own menopausal journeys—whether they were about to have surgery, recovering from it, or just entering menopause. It was clear to her that many women feel lost and confused about dealing with menopausal symptoms.
Symptoms of menopause and perimenopause (the time leading up to menopause) can include irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, and more. While menopause usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, with the average age in the UK being 51, it marks when a woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs, leading to a drop in oestrogen levels. This hormonal change is responsible for many menopausal symptoms.
In simpler terms, McLean says the scientific explanations are less helpful than understanding the real-life impact of menopause. There are 34 potential symptoms, including hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and more. However, each woman’s experience is unique.
She advises women to track their symptoms and see a doctor for support. Menopause isn’t just an issue for older women; it can start as early as the late 30s. McLean encourages women not to dismiss their symptoms due to age and suggests keeping a symptom diary to discuss with their doctor.
McLean also emphasizes that menopause doesn’t mean the end of your life. It’s an opportunity to reassess how you take care of yourself. Simple changes like getting enough sleep, eating healthier, and taking time for yourself can make a big difference. She cautions against habits like eating junk food and staying up late, which can worsen symptoms.
Recognizing your mental and physical needs is crucial during this time. It’s also important to pay attention to how your behavior affects your loved ones. Honest conversations with them can provide valuable feedback and support.
McLean acknowledges that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for many women but notes it’s not for everyone. It’s essential to discuss with a GP to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Ultimately, McLean believes menopause is just a part of life’s journey and shouldn’t define you. Embrace who you are, draw on your experiences, and remember, you’re only halfway through your incredible life.
