8 Things I Would Never Do If I Landed in Post-Menopause Now

I landed in post-menopause still being told I hadn't even started perimenopause. Despite years of consulting numerous doctors and checking in with specialists, I was consistently fobbed off. Often, I was told excuses like, "It could be your thyroid," or "Your issues are caused by your chronic illness," or even, "You're just stressed." The general thrust of their conversations was, "Stop bothering us with this silly stuff." One time, a doctor even told me they had more serious cases to deal with.

Looking back, I now know I started my perimenopause journey at around 35. By 43, I was post-menopausal. I suffered symptoms for about seven years afterward without any help. There wasn’t the wealth of menopause-related information, guides, and support that exists today. I was a pitiful, lost soul, struggling to get on top of things. There was no solace to be found anywhere. My poor husband tried tirelessly to help. Not knowing the cause left us flummoxed as to how to support me. We just wanted to live our life happily and on our terms.

It took years to get on top of my health. During those years, another illness was brewing that went unchecked, despite my efforts to address it. Last November, I visited one of the doctors at the medical clinic I attend. Yet again, I was fobbed off and told to wait for a gastroenterologist appointment, that I had to beg for in July, that was to take place the following March. A few days later, I landed in A&E in a hospital down the country. Thanks to the teams there, they saved me. When I arrived, I had just two hours before I would have gone into a coma. It sends shivers down my spine, even now, to think about it.

Here are 8 things I’d never do if I landed in post-menopause now, thanks to the plethora of information and support available today:

(1) Burn the Candle at Both Ends

It’s so easy to think that the busier you are, the more fulfilled you’ll feel. You might believe that you’ll finally get on top of the chaos and become calm and in control. It took me years to realise that stepping back, taking stock, and resting appropriately were cornerstones of self-care.

Prioritising self-care by making more space for yourself can bring more calm into your life. You’ll find ways to switch off, become relaxed, and feel renewed and energized. With the right tools, you can build resilience to daily stressors without burning your energy candle at both ends.

(2) Live a Chaotic Life

It’s imperative to organise your life so it works for you. This enables you to thrive and focus on your goals more efficiently and effectively. You gain an awareness of where you can free up space to plan for future wellness, have a more productive week, and work on your life goals and wishes as you age.

One tool that gives me immense freedom is to divide my goals into four sections. I hope it works for you. Get into the habit of grabbing a brew, sitting somewhere comfy, and making a list of your priorities and the tasks to achieve them for the day or week ahead. Divide those tasaks into what you must to urgently, delegate to others, can wait until another day, or just bin anything not worth your time. This practice is a time-saver and helps keep you organised. It wasn’t until I started doing this that I began to pave the way to the life of my dreams.

(3) Keep Yourself at the Bottom of Your List

Practicing self-care means prioritizing your needs and taking steps to future-proof your wellness. A crucial part of this is ensuring you have a supportive medical team. I know how difficult that can be, but it brings a huge sense of calm and confidence that you’ll be looked after as you age.

If your doctor isn’t supporting you, dismissing your symptoms, find one who will listen. There’s no excuse for backward views. If they don’t know, they should refer you to a consultant, HRT specialist, nutrition professional, or whoever else is qualified to help. Do your research, work with professionals you trust, and never settle for less than the care you deserve.

(4) Lose Your Self-Belief

For many women, perimenopause and post-menopause can be a harrowing experience. In my case, when I reached post menopause, I was drained, lost, and unsure where to turn. My self-belief took a serious hit. I wish I’d learned sooner to work on rebuilding my confidence and addressing any unresolved trauma. Prioritizing your mental and emotional health is as important as taking care of your physical well-being. Create an lifestyle environment that nurtures self-belief for you.

(5) Ignore Your Body's Signals

As a nutritional therapist, I often emphasise the importance of being your own wellness detective. No one knows your body better than you do. Yes, you need the support of nutrition professionals, doctors, physiotherapists, and others, but ultimately, it’s up to you to be vigilant about your health.

Regularly check in with yourself to see what needs to change, be amended, or updated. Whether it’s scheduling a blood test or adjusting your lifestyle, don’t let challenges define you. There is more to you than menopause. Create your life on your terms, and enjoy the journey.

(6) Neglect Nutrition

Nutrition plays a critical role in managing menopause symptoms and overall health. I wish I had paid more attention and not let my good nourishing habits slip in the early stages of  my journey. Incorporating nutrient-dense foods, focusing on bone health, and managing weight through balanced meals are essential. Today, I wouldn’t neglect the importance of hydration, omega-3s, and vitamins like D, checking for, and fixing, nutrient dieficiencies, and balancing blood sugar. There's more but this is a good starting point. 

(7) Avoid Talking About Menopause

Menopause was once a taboo subject, but today, open conversations are essential. If I could do it over, I’d never avoid talking about my experiences. Sharing your journey with others can help break down the stigma and provide much-needed support. It was harder back then. Whether it’s with friends, family, or a support group, don’t be afraid to speak up, if you want to and you believe it will help.

(8) Forget to Celebrate Your Achievements

Finally, over the last few years I have seen the benefits of celebrating my wins. This is thanks to my business mentor. It was never top of my list up to then. I grew up with do the job in hand, move onto the next one. Now, I always celebrate the small victories along the way. Post-menopause is a new chapter, and it’s important to acknowledge your progress, resilience, and strength. Whether it’s overcoming a tough symptom, making a positive lifestyle change, or nutrition makeover, or simply feeling good, take time to celebrate your achievements.

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