When we hear the word menopause, many of us probably picture a woman in her late 40s or 50s dealing with hot flushes, night sweats and perhaps a few other changes.
But what if we started the conversation earlier?
With World Menopause Day taking place on 18 October, this year's International Menopause Society theme is Chronic Pain at Midlife, highlighting an important area of women's health that deserves greater recognition and understanding.
But for me, World Menopause Day is also an opportunity to ask a bigger question: when should we start preparing for menopause?
My answer is: before you think you need to.
Menopause is not something that suddenly happens overnight. The transition can involve a wide range of physical, emotional and cognitive changes, and for some women symptoms can begin before they realise that perimenopause may be involved.
That is why I believe better menopause education should start earlier. You don't have to be approaching 50, experiencing symptoms or even thinking about menopause personally to benefit from understanding what happens during this stage of life.
It is about having the knowledge to recognise changes, know what questions to ask, understand the support available and feel confident advocating for yourself.
This is why I have created my Preparing for Menopause workshop at Howfen House, Westhoughton’s fantastic new coworking space in Westhoughton, on Thursday 15 October, which is just ahead of World Menopause Day.
The friendly, informative session is aimed at women from their mid-30s onwards, as well as anyone who simply wants to understand more about menopause and midlife health. We'll explore what happens during menopause, why symptoms can start earlier than expected, the range of symptoms, evidence-based lifestyle approaches, support options and self-advocacy.
Because menopause education shouldn't begin when you are already struggling.
Sometimes, the most empowering thing we can do is prepare before we need to.
Preparing for Menopause takes place on Thursday 15 October, 7–8.30pm, at Howfen House, Westhoughton. Tickets are £15
Book your place here https://howfenhouse.coworksapp.com/events/1349230
Annette Aiken is a certified menopause coach, peer reviewed published author, Public health professional and the founder of The Mobile Menopause Library and Training works with organisations, communities and individuals to help understand this important life stage. More information can be found by visiting https://mobilemenopauselibrary.co.uk