Menopause isn’t just about hot flashes. With more celebrities speaking out about less-discussed symptoms like vaginal looseness and incontinence, we commend them for breaking the taboo. Menopause happens when a woman’s ovaries stop producing hormones, but for years, it has been a secretive and taboo topic. Women feared discussing it, worried they’d seem “past it.” However, this attitude is changing, thanks to many well-known figures who are openly sharing their experiences.
Heaton, a pop star and mother of two, faced menopause at 35 after a hysterectomy in 2015. She has since championed menopause awareness, though she hadn’t revealed the full extent of her symptoms until now. Heaton explains the common struggles of menopause, such as incontinence, which affects one-third of women. Now 40, she’s involved in a campaign to promote ‘Silk ‘n’ Tightra,’ a device designed to tighten and rejuvenate the vagina. During menopause, declining hormone levels, particularly estrogen, can lead to vaginal dryness, slackness, and a weakened pelvic floor.
Heaton faced various symptoms, including low sex drive, vaginal looseness, and incontinence, which impacted her confidence. She shares her journey using Silk ‘n Tightra, noting a significant positive difference in her sex life, including less dryness, pain-free sex, and stronger vaginal muscles.
Back in 2013, actress Kim Cattrall started the public conversation about menopause, noting its drastic effects. Playing Samantha Jones in “Sex and The City,” her character also dealt with menopause. Cattrall aimed to positively reframe her experience and educate others.
Gwyneth Paltrow, while discussing her perimenopause, highlighted the mood swings, sweating, and her mission to rebrand menopause. Diagnosed with osteopenia at 37, a precursor to osteoporosis, Paltrow stresses the need for societal change in viewing menopause.
Liz Earle faced unexpected symptoms like sleeplessness and tinnitus. Through her publications, she aims to dispel misconceptions about menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), educating women about the numerous symptoms and encouraging proactive health measures.
Meg Mathews has been vocal about experiencing 32 out of the 34 known menopause symptoms. She found little information beyond the common hot flashes and realized many of her friends shared similar experiences. This led her to create a platform, megsmenopause.com, for open discussions and support. Mathews also launched a range of products addressing intimate and menopausal health.
Davina McCall, too, has been candid about her menopause experience, starting at 44 with perimenopause. She encourages embracing this life stage rather than feeling “less than” and highlights the potential for an exciting new phase of life.
Lorraine Kelly described feeling “flat” and unusually tired during her menopause, stressing the importance of women speaking out and supporting each other through this natural phase.
Andrea McLean, from ITV’s Loose Women, passionately addresses the lack of open conversation about menopause. She shared her symptoms live on air and later in her book, highlighting the wide array of possible experiences and encouraging women to seek help and support.
Menopause can significantly impact long-term health, such as bone loss and cardiovascular issues due to decreased estrogen levels. Regular exercise and proper nutrition are essential. Resistance training and cardiovascular exercise can strengthen bones, while supplements like vitamin K2 can help manage bone and heart health.
As estrogen levels drop, women might face insulin sensitivity issues, leading to increased appetite and potential gut problems. Maintaining a balanced diet and good dental hygiene is crucial. Products like Biomel probiotic drinks and dental care tools can help manage these changes.
Hair thinning on the head and unwanted hair growth elsewhere are other unwelcome symptoms. Simple solutions like Crème Bleach or prescribed treatments can help manage these changes.
Accepting and addressing menopause openly is vital. Sharing experiences and constructive tips can empower women to handle this life stage with confidence and support from the community.
