Menopause

Menopause Myths

The menopause is when menstrual periods stop.  Periods usually start to become less frequent over a few months or years before they stop altogether. Sometimes they can stop suddenly. The menopause is a natural part of ageing that usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, as oestrogen levels decline. In the UK, the average age for to reach the menopause is 51.

While many believe that they can’t get pregnant after their final period, we recommend if you are taking contraception, continue as normal for the first year.

The menopause can be a really tough time, when lots of changes are happening to your body. It’s OK to ask for help and you can get support and help if you are struggling with menopausal symptoms. Talk to your GP who, if necessary, can seek further advice from the menopause specialist if required. You can also find support via the services below.

The NHS Inform ‘Later years’ health hub has a massive amount of information and resources which are not just focused around the menopause but also the more complex health needs which you may experience in later life. You can find it HERE

We have been running a series of 6 free sessions within the community which are aimed at anyone currently in any stage of the menopause. These started in May and run monthly until November from 6pm until 8pm at the Dundee International Women’s Centre. Please see below for details of each session and the link to book. You can book in for them all or just the ones which interest you. Spaces will be on a first come first served basis.

18th May 23 – Setting the Scene (A Session to introduce the topic and open up communication) 
22nd June 23 – Your Body & the Menopause 
24th August 23 – Menopause & Relationships 
28th September 23 – Menopause & the Workplace  
26th October 23 – Mental Health & Menopause book here
23rd November 23 – Support & Services book here
If sessions are full, email tay.bbvmcn@nhs.scot to register your interest and be added to a waiting list

Services & Support

You can access our Padlet which is packed full of information and resources HERE – this covers lots of different areas of the menopause and is regularly updated with videos, podcasts, articles and guidance 

British Menopause Society (BMS):  

BMS TV provides short videos about topics by menopause experts 

Women’s Health Concern: 

This is the patient arm of the British Menopause Society (BMS) which has excellent evidence and fact sheets  along with resources

Rock My Menopause :  

Funded by the Primary Care Women’s Health Forum – lots of infomation, podcasts and webinars 

NHS Inform: 

Recently updated Scottish NHS website – includes videos with basic menopause information  

 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG):  

“Menopause Hub” with lots of information for patients 

  Menopause Matters: 

Website run by a Scottish menopause specialist – includes discussion forum

National Osteoporosis Society  

Includes downloadable factsheets about calcium-rich diet and healthy living

The Daisy Network  

Premature Ovarian Insufficiency support organization for patients under 40