It’s World Menopause Month making it the perfect time to talk about this life stage that affects every woman, yet often gets left in the shadows. This year’s theme, Menopause: Be Prepared, Not Scared, highlights the importance of understanding what’s happening to your body and where you can find support when symptoms start to affect your daily life.
For many women, perimenopause and menopause can feel overwhelming. Hot flashes, mood swings, weight changes, and tiredness are just some of the well-known symptoms, but there are also lesser-discussed challenges, like vaginal dryness and bladder issues, that we see—and treat—every day in our clinic.
But before we dive into the symptoms and how we can help, let’s quickly define these seasons of live to make sure we’re all on the same page:
- Menopause is a point in life when you’ve had your final period. It typically happens between ages 45 and 55, when your ovaries stop releasing eggs.
- Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause, which can start in your 40s or even late 30s. This is when your ovaries begin running out of eggs, and symptoms of menopause may start to show.
Common Symptoms and How We Can Help
Here at The Wellness Boutique, we support women navigating the shifts of menopause. Our women’s health physiotherapists and health professionals have a deep understanding of the body’s needs during this stage and can offer tailored treatments for a range of symptoms including:
Vaginal Dryness & Painful Sex
Vaginal dryness, often leading to discomfort and pain during sex, is one of those symptoms no one talks about. This isn’t something you have to “just deal with”, we can absolutely help. With specialised physiotherapy treatments, we can help to restore tissue health, improve circulation, and offer advice on products to support vaginal health. Your comfort and intimacy matter, and we’re here to help you feel confident again.
Wee (Urinary) Problems
Bladder issues are another common side effect of dropping oestrogen levels. You might experience urgency (when you need to go, you need to go now!), leaking when you sneeze, or needing to go more frequently. These symptoms can be frustrating, but they’re also very treatable. Our women’s health physios can work with you to strengthen your pelvic floor and train your bladder to regain control, and feel empowered in your body again.
Tiredness
Fatigue can often be linked to hormone changes during perimenopause or menopause. While feeling drained is common, it doesn’t have to be your “new normal.” Our in-house dietitian can check if you’re getting the right nutrition and create a personalised plan to recharge your energy levels. Fatigue can be a symptom of other deficiencies or conditions, so we’ll also collaborate with your GP to rule out other causes so you can feel more you again!
Weight Gain
Weight gain during menopause can be complex, as hormonal changes, muscle loss, and slower metabolism all play a role. It’s normal for calorie needs to drop during this time and post menopause, but continuing to eat the way you always have, can lead to gradual weight gain. Our dietitian can guide you with tailored meal plans to maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise is also worth committing to (even if you’re tired). Reformer Pilates is a low-impact, yet highly effective way to stay strong, toned, and empowered in your body during these times.
Take the First Step
If you, or someone you know is in this season of life, we recommend downloading the “What’s Bothering You” Perimenopause and Menopause Symptom Checklist by Jean Hailes for Women’s Health. It’s a simple way to track what’s going on with your body so you can get the right support. Bring this checklist to your next GP or women’s health physio appointment.
Remember, menopause is a normal part of life—you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the right knowledge and support, you can manage your symptoms and approach this stage with confidence, not fear.
Are perimenopause or menopause symptoms affecting your day-to-day life? Reach out to us. Together, we can make this transition smoother, so you can start feeling like your vibrant, energetic self again.
Book your women’s health physio appointment here or call us to chat 0434 499 478. Appointments are claimable on private health.