In this episode, Michelle sits down with Emma Henry and Judith Lightfoot, two experienced nurses who share their personal journeys through menopause. They reflect on the limited training and knowledge they had about menopause during their nursing careers, highlighting the shocking lack of education even among health professionals. They delve into the emotional and psychological impacts of menopause, including the challenges of managing stress, relationships, and mental health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Many health professionals, including nurses, reported having limited training and understanding of menopause, often only being aware of basic symptoms like hot flushes and the cessation of periods. This lack of education can lead to inadequate support for patients experiencing menopause.

• Both Emma and Judith emphasise the significance of educating oneself about menopause. They encouraged seeking out books, courses, and support groups to better understand the transition and advocate for one's health.

• They highlight that menopause can exacerbate mental health issues, with women being more predisposed to anxiety and depression during this time. Emma and Judith share personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed and the importance of recognizing hormonal changes as a contributing factor.

• Emma introduced EFT as a therapeutic approach that helps calm the nervous system and address emotional issues without the use of needles. Both Emma and Judith shared positive experiences with EFT, noting its effectiveness in managing anxiety and stress related to menopause.

• The transition through menopause can significantly affect family dynamics. Both Emma and Judith discuss the importance of open communication with family members, including children and partners, about the changes they are experiencing, which can foster understanding and support within the family.

BEST MOMENTS

"I just knew that at some stage you went through menopause, all I thought about it was hot flushes and that was about it."

"You kind of felt like you were going to be on your own. Good luck with that."

"It feels a bit like this: if you have any kind of trauma-based stuff that's happened to you and you kind of push it down, at some point, that will come back to you."

"Menopause can happen at any age, we should be teaching teenagers about menopause."

"Educate yourself as much as you possibly can. Talk to women, go and join groups."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

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HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

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Website www.panaceapause.co.uk