By Karen Bester
Being a woman isn’t always easy. From a young age, we’re told half-truths and vague warnings about the changes our bodies will face. From periods to pregnancy and eventually menopause. In South Africa in particular, many women still don’t receive the right education about this important and inevitable phase of life, according to a 2024 Global Public Health study.
With so much complexity in our female biology, it’s no surprise many of us feel unprepared when it comes to ‘the change,’ says Karen Bester, Medical Training Manager at Lamelle.
She shares five things she wishes every woman knew about menopause, and says some of them may surprise you.
1. Your sex drive might change and that’s totally normal – Menopause often brings about major changes in libido. Some women develop entirely new sexual interests, while others feel a significant drop in desire. These shifts are completely natural and are linked to hormonal changes, like declining oestrogen levels. The key here is to embrace these changes and communicate openly about your changing needs.
2. There’s pre-menopause and perimenopause too? Many women aren’t aware that there are two stages before menopause even begins – pre-menopause and perimenopause which can begin as early as your 40s. These phases can be tricky to identify, both for the women going through them and for doctors too. Symptoms often show up in unexpected forms. From heart palpitations and joint pain to dry skin or even sensitive teeth. “It’s so important that we start having these conversations,” says Bester. “Up to 60% of women don’t connect their symptoms to menopause, and that needs to change.”
3. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) isn’t the only option – While some women choose to avoid hormone therapy altogether, HRT’s bad reputation isn’t always justified. The actual risk of breast cancer linked to HRT is relatively low. Still, if you prefer a hormone-free path, Bester recommends trying a natural alternative like Lady Prelox – a non-hormonal supplement that supports your body through the transition by improving blood circulation and sensitivity.
4. It’s not all bad. Ever heard of menopausal zest? While the transition can be tough, many post-menopausal women come out happier on the other side. It’s a real phenomenon that occurs where women feel more confident after going through the transition. Post-menopausal women are happier in their relationships, happier at work and happier overall – there’s more joy to come.
5. Sex can actually get better – Menopause is often viewed as the end of fertility and thus, the end of sexual relevance. The factors we discussed above like vaginal dryness or shifting desire don’t help that perception. But in reality, menopause can usher in a whole new era of intimacy. Karen says that “with fewer worries about pregnancy, a deeper understanding of your body and more emotional confidence, many women report that sex becomes more enjoyable, empowering and fulfilling than ever before.” With simple changes like more communication, lubrication or supplements, you may even discover a renewed sense of pleasure and connection.
So, while we’ve long been taught to fear menopause, it doesn’t have to be a crisis. Karen explains that with the right information and support along with the right mindset and resources, this life stage can be a powerful opportunity to step into a more confident, comfortable version of yourself during later life.
