The myths of menopause

Hot flashes are the sports car of menopause – they get all the attention. But there are plenty of other menopause myths that are perpetuated from generation to generation. Lauren Streicher, clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s medical school, confirms and dispels common myths and misconceptions.

• Myth: The age of menopause is determined by how old you were when you started your period.

Answer: False. It’s genetically set by when your mother went through menopause.

• Myth: A total hysterectomy will put you into instant menopause.

Answer: False. A total hysterectomy refers to the removal of the uterus and cervix. But it does not include the ovaries and therefore nothing changes hormonally.

• Myth: The average time hot flashes last is two years.

Answer: True.

• Myth: Menopause occurs when you run out of eggs.

Answer: False. The eggs get old and the ovaries stop producing estrogen, but there are still millions of eggs left.

• Myth: Low estrogen levels cause weight gain and contribute to wrinkles.

Answer: Weight gain: False. Low estrogen causes a redistribution of fat. Wrinkles: True. There is a decrease in skin collagen, so skin sags.

• Myth: Women live one-third of their lives after menopause.

Answer: True.

• Myth: If you are on the pill and you stop getting your period, it might be menopause.

Answer: False. If you are on the pill you are taking hormone replacement and there is no way to know your menopause status.

• Myth: When your ovaries stop producing estrogen, they also stop producing testosterone.

Answer: False. Testosterone production continues for a few more years.

• Myth: If you haven’t had your period in six months, you never will again.

Answer: False. Your ovaries might still kick in; 12 months with no period is considered when you are done.