Why is Menopause Such a Pain?

Most women going through peri-menopause and menopause will experience a sudden rise in pain symptoms. Yet, so few of us recognise the symptoms. We know about the hot flushes, the brain fog and loss of libido but no one really talks about the aches and pain and the fatigue. Even though it affects so many of us, in so many ways.

The shift in our hormones in our forties and fifties can create quite the turbulence. But we are only just beginning to understand the full extent of it. You see, estrogen plays a critical role in how we process pain. As estrogen levels begin to plummet our pain sensitivity is heightened. And if you already suffer from chronic pain , it becomes worse.

Until recently ‘pain’ was not even recognised among menopause symptoms. But research now suggests that nearly 70% of women will experience musculoskeletal pain during peri-menopause and menopause and around 25% of these will have severe, often life changing symptoms. So let’s talk about it.

Doctors and scientists are now beginning to recognise the full impact of hormonal changes on woman’s body and mind. How the decline in estorgen affects our bones, joints, muscles, moods and even longevity. In fact there is a term for it.- Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause.

What the science is now telling us…

Read my full article in Midlife Etc on the what science now tells about menopause and pain and what we can do about it.

And to help calm the pains try this short and simple yoga routine. A go-to practice you can use anytime. Even if you’ve never stepped on a yoga mat before.