Menopause Unveiled: Intro to Stages, Symptoms, and a Holistic Approach
- Nov 1
- 4 min read
A Practical Introduction to Navigating Menopause for Every Woman
Menopause is a natural part of life, not a medical problem—and yet, so many people find themselves confused, anxious, or even embarrassed to talk about it. This blog aims to break the silence, clear up myths, and offer practical advice and support for anyone facing this important transition.
What Is Menopause—And Who Experiences It?
Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles and fertility for those born with female reproductive anatomy [1-2]. While many think of menopause as something only women experience, it’s important to note that transgender men who still have ovaries and are not on testosterone can also go through menopause [3]. Ultimately, menopause is not about gender identity, but about biology.
Why Is Menopause So Misunderstood?
For generations, menopause has been shrouded in secrecy and sometimes even shame. Historically, symptoms were dismissed or called “female hysteria” [4]. But in recent years, women and advocates have begun to speak up, demanding better healthcare and honest conversations about what really happens during menopause.
The Three Main Stages of Menopause
Perimenopause: This is the transition to menopause, usually starting in the 40s (but sometimes earlier or later). Periods may become irregular, and symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep problems can begin. Some experts break this down into several sub-stages, depending on changes to your cycle [5-7].
Menopause: Officially, menopause is diagnosed after 12 months with no period. This marks the end of fertility [5-6].
Postmenopause: After menopause, you enter this stage for the rest of your life. Hormone levels stabilize, but some symptoms and health concerns—like bone loss and heart health—may need attention [5-6].
Natural vs. Induced Menopause
Most people go through menopause naturally as their ovaries slow down. But menopause can also happen suddenly due to surgery (like ovary removal), cancer treatments, or certain medical conditions [2]. Sometimes, it occurs early—before age 40—and in about half of these cases, doctors can’t pinpoint a cause [8].
Common Symptoms—And Why They Vary
Not everyone’s menopause journey looks the same. Some sail through with barely a symptom, while others struggle with hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, or joint pain. Estrogen plays a big role: as it drops, risks for bone loss and urinary issues may rise. The good news? Many symptoms can be managed, and help is available.
Holistic Approaches to Menopause Care
Managing menopause is all about finding what works best for you. Here are some options:
Natural Remedies: Herbs like chamomile, calendula, and elderflower can soothe vaginal tissues and promote balance. You might try sitz baths, teas, or natural salves [9]. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) can improve bladder control, reduce pain, and support sexual health.
Mind-Body Practices: Yoga, acupuncture, relaxation techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help with stress, mood, and sleep.
Medical Treatments: Hormone therapy (sometimes called HRT) is a proven way to ease hot flashes and other symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend medications for bone health or other issues.
Empowering Yourself Through Education
Menopause is a powerful transition that deserves respect, understanding, and support. By learning about the stages and available treatments, you can make choices that fit your unique needs. Let’s keep the conversation open and compassionate, so every person experiencing menopause knows they’re not alone—and that their wellbeing matters.
Let’s Keep Talking!
Have questions, stories, or tips to share? Drop a comment below, and let’s build a supportive community where menopause is celebrated as a natural phase of life!
References
1. NIA. (2024, October 16). What Is Menopause? | National Institute on Aging. NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA). https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause/what-menopause
2. NAMS, T. N. A. M. S. (2020). The Menopause Guidebook (9th ed.). The North American Menopause Society (NAMS). https://menopause.org/
3. Napier, K. (2024). Transgender men experiencing menopause struggle to access tailored support, so one healthcare worker is starting a podcast - ABC News. ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-01-20/transgender-men-menopause-podcast/103363772
4. Backman, I. (2024). From hysteria to empowerment < Yale School of Medicine. Yale Medicine Magazine, Spring 2024 (Issue 172) Women’s Health Special Report. https://medicine.yale.edu/news/yale-medicine-magazine/article/from-hysteria-to-empowerment/
5. Cleveland Clinic. (2024, April 5). What To Expect in Each Stage of Menopause. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/menopause-stages
6. Columbus OB/GYN. (2025). What Are the 5 Stages of Menopause? [Understand the Process]. Https://Columbusobgyn.Com/. https://columbusobgyn.com/what-are-the-five-stages-of-menopause/
7. Elletson, S. (2025). The Four Stages of Perimenopause - FUTURE WOMAN. Future Woman. https://future-woman.com/four-stages-perimenopause/
8. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, September 6). Premature & Early Menopause: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21138-premature-and-early-menopause
9. Pursell, J. (2015). The Herbal Apothecary: 100 Medicinal Herbs and How to Use Them. Workman/Timber Press.
Footnote
This article presents a condensed overview of the academic paper authored by Yvonne Tijerina, entitled “Understanding Menopause: Stages, Symptoms, and Holistic Approaches to Care.”
Tijerina, Yvonne, (2025). Understanding Menopause: Stages, Symptoms, and Holistic Approaches to Care [unpublished paper]. Nutrition, Everglades University.
**Did you miss ASHEmporium’s 2025 Women’s Health Seminar on the “Three Stages of Menopause”? Don’t fret! You can still catch all the valuable insights from the seminar. Access to the archived seminar content is available upon request (please note that a fee applies). Dive in and empower yourself with knowledge!
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