Menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, but it’s often misunderstood—especially in the Philippines, where reproductive health isn’t always openly discussed. As a result, many Filipinas navigate this stage with uncertainty, misinformation, or even fear. It’s time to clear the air and separate fact from fiction.
Myth #1: Menopause Occurs Overnight
Perhaps the biggest myth: menopause strikes suddenly. It’s actually a gradual process. Most women go through perimenopause first—the years before menopause—when irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings start.
Menopause is formally diagnosed after 12 continuous months of not having a period. The process may last several years, and every woman is different.
Myth #2: You Can’t Get Pregnant Anymore in Perimenopause
Fertility does slow down, but getting pregnant is not impossible during perimenopause. Ovulation becomes more unpredictable, but it doesn’t halt suddenly. This is why a few women suffering from both PCOS and menopause symptoms could be caught off guard by a surprise pregnancy.
If you’re in your 40s and do not anticipate more children, you should still have a talk about birth control with your ob gynecologist at this point.
Myth #3: Menopause Only Affects Your Period
Menopause does not only affect your period. It may affect sleep, weight, skin, mood, and even memory. Some women develop brain fog, anxiety, or depression—symptoms which are often underestimated or misdiagnosed.
Speaking with a healthcare professional will allow you to know what is normal and what may need to be looked at more closely.
Myth #4: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is Bad for Everyone
HRT is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but it’s not inherently bad either. For most women, it relieves strong symptoms and is good for bone health. The question is figuring out if it’s good for you, depending on your medical background and present symptoms.
An ob gynecologist can assess your risks and assist in developing a personalized, safe treatment plan.
Myth #5: You Don’t Need to See a Doctor
Even if you’re doing well on your own, scheduled checkups are still a good idea. Menopause might actually put you at higher risk for certain health problems such as osteoporosis and heart disease. A trusted OB-GYN can guide you through this new phase with the right screenings, lifestyle recommendations, and encouragement.
In the modern digital age, you don’t even need to step outside your front door. With online consultations, you can speak to experts who can walk you through the physical and emotional transformations menopause entails—with care and professionalism.
