This month sees World Menopause Day, giving us a time to reflect on the progress being made in helping women through this period in their lives.
One of the leading experts in this field is Dr Louise Newson.
She has been talking about how far we’ve come but gives a note of caution that there is still a very long way to go:
“We have been working really hard to improve education and knowledge to as many people as possible. Awareness has grown, conversations have opened up and more women are recognising the important roles our hormones progesterone, estradiol and testosterone have for our health and wellbeing.
However, globally only around 5% of menopausal women are currently prescribed hormones so we have a long way to go.
The impact of changing and low hormones on mental health remains one of the most overlooked parts of menopause. Women experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, low mood or loss of joy are still too often told it’s ‘just stress’ or ‘part of getting older.’
The hormonal changes driving these symptoms are rarely recognised, let alone treated with hormones. The result is that women continue to suffer unnecessarily and, in some cases, with devastating consequences.
This week, I’m sharing new research that highlights the urgent need for better training in recognising hormone-related mental health issues, along with a new podcast on hysterectomy, hormones and recovery.
Together, they show why understanding the hormonal roots of mental health is not optional – it’s essential to improving care for women everywhere.
New research has revealed a much higher suicide risk during menopause, revealing clinician training is urgently needed”.
To find out more take a listen to her latest podcast where she interviews Dr Kameelah Philips
