Menopause, with its night sweats, hot flushes, and mood swings, can be confusing and challenging for women. Andrea McLean from Loose Women has shared her thoughts and advice on the subject in her new book, Confessions of a Menopausal Woman.
Andrea McLean is passionate about discussing menopause because it’s a topic that many shy away from. She believes menopause is a significant and inevitable part of every woman’s life that deserves more attention. Unfortunately, society often views menopause as a marker of being old and irrelevant, which discourages open conversation about it.
In September 2016, McLean announced on Loose Women that she would be undergoing a hysterectomy. This surgery, which involves removing the uterus and sometimes the ovaries and other related structures, can lead to early menopause. McLean shared her experiences of menopausal symptoms live on air, which resonated with many women.
Now 49, McLean has received thousands of messages from women seeking advice on surgery and menopause. She realized there’s a lot of confusion and fear surrounding menopause, with many women unsure how to handle their symptoms. Common symptoms include irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and more.
Menopause is a natural part of aging, typically occurring between 45 and 55, with 51 being the average age in the UK. All women are born with a finite number of eggs, which deplete over time. Menopause starts when most of the eggs are gone, leading to a drop in oestrogen levels. This drop causes the brain to send more signals to the ovaries, resulting in symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats.
McLean points out that while the medical explanation is helpful, what women really want to know is the practical reality of menopause. Women experience it differently, with a wide range of symptoms. Even if only a few symptoms are present, it doesn’t mean a woman isn’t going through menopause.
She advises women to track their symptoms and speak to their doctors for support. According to McLean, menopause is something every woman will face, often starting in their late 30s or 40s.
McLean emphasizes the importance of knowing your body and not being dismissed if you suspect menopausal symptoms. Keeping a diary of symptoms can help when discussing with a doctor.
Menopause doesn’t mean the end of life. It’s a time to evaluate whether your habits and lifestyle are making you feel better or worse. McLean suggests considering dietary changes and self-care routines. It’s important to take time for yourself and notice any changes in how you feel.
Communicating with loved ones about how menopause might be affecting you is crucial. They can provide valuable insights into changes in your behavior.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can relieve menopausal symptoms, though it’s not for everyone. Discussing HRT with a GP can help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. McLean encourages women to see menopause as a change, not something that should define them. Women have many incredible years ahead and should embrace their experiences.
McLean’s message is clear: don’t let menopause define you. It’s just a small part of your life, and there are many ways to make the most of this time. Her book, Confessions of a Menopausal Woman, aims to offer support and guidance for women navigating this phase.
