Unpacking menopause myths on World Menopause Day

UNITED NATIONS, New York – Maryln was in her thirties when an older relative first broached the topic of menopause, often referred to as the “age of despair” in Arabic.

“My cousin told me, ‘Once you enter [that age], everything is over. You become slow and your life changes completely,” the 52-year-old shared as part of a campaign supported by UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, to destigmatize menopause.

“But I did not feel any of this. I feel super energetic, and every day that passes, I become more and more creative. I still have goals that I want to achieve.”

Menopause, the natural health process which marks the end of monthly menstruation, has long been shrouded in taboo and secrecy. The stigma attached to the topic has left the millions of people who menstruate worldwide ill-equipped to navigate the biological, societal, emotional and psychological impacts of this transition.

UNFPA is dedicated to shining a light on this natural part of life and debunking the myths that fuel fear and misunderstanding. Get the facts below, and your questions answered with our Menopause FAQ. 

Myth: Only severe menopause symptoms need treatment.

While many women manage their symptoms of menopause at home, consultation with a health provider is important to ensure all people who experience menopause have what they need for a healthy transition. Even common symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes/flashes and night sweats can be linked to poor memory performance and alterations in brain structure, function and connectivity. Learn more.

Myth: Only women experience menopause.

Transgender men and gender-diverse individuals also experience menopause and have unique health needs. There is an urgent need for more data in this area and for health providers to understand the specific needs of gender-diverse individuals related to menopause and the ageing process. Learn more.

Myth: Post-menopausal women have no purpose in society.

The idea that women lose their value once their reproductive years have ended is rooted in misogyny and is untrue. The post-menopausal years of a woman’s life are just as valuable as other stages, and can offer a unique time to focus on oneself, to contribute to family and community, to help others grow and learn and to take up new interests. Learn more.