As we mark World Menopause Day, Irish Menopause Specialist Dr. Ciara McKenna answers some frequently asked questions.
To help women navigate this stage in life with confidence and clarity, General Practitioner and Menopause Specialist from the Rose Clinic in Bray, Dr. Ciara McKenn has partnered with Clonmel Healthcare to address the reality of perimenopause and menopause.
Answering some common questions on the topic, Dr. Ciara shares:
Can you explain the difference between perimenopause and menopause and what is the impact on women in Ireland?
“Menopause is defined as when a woman has not had a period for 12 months. This happens because, as we age, the number of eggs in our ovaries decreases and oestrogen levels drop. This drop in hormones can lead to menopausal symptoms. Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55. Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause. It can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, when hormone levels start to fluctuate. These fluctuating hormones can also lead to menopausal symptoms.
While perimenopause and menopause are a natural part of a woman’s ageing process, the symptoms women experience during this transition can make daily life challenging. Irish data shows that 84% of women who are currently going through or have gone through menopause said they experienced symptoms. Digging into that further, 13% said their symptoms significantly impacted their life, 33% said symptoms moderately impacted their life, and 38% experienced mild symptoms and a mild daily impact.2
As women transition through these stages, the need for holistic symptom support is vital, because while symptoms are common, every woman experiences them differently.”
What are symptoms of menopause and how can they impact daily life?
“Global evidence from more than 480,000 women shows that they experienced a high level of symptoms across all stages of the menopause transition.[3] Among the top eight symptoms, the following had the highest prevalence:
- Joint and muscular discomfort (65%)
- Fatigue and exhaustion (64%)
- Irritability (54%)
- Hot flushes (53%)
- Sleep problems and insomnia (52%)
These symptoms fall into three main categories that may significantly affect physical, psychological and social functioning. Clinical and epidemiological research also indicates that menopause symptoms can overlap with one another and have a daily impact across sleep, daytime functioning and physical wellbeing.”
Why is there a need to move away from a one-size fits all approach?
“I regularly meet with women who are at various stages of the transition to perimenopause and then menopause. A consistent theme from these women is confusion or uncertainty around early symptoms and what they mean. There can be a lot of fear and emotion around the changes happening in their body and how it shows up for them.
While HRT is one of the main treatment options, lifestyle management is always an important part of managing menopausal symptoms. There are also non-hormonal options that can be considered if HRT is not suitable or preferred. Even for those taking HRT, symptom management can include non-hormonal treatments and lifestyle changes. This isn’t a ‘one-size fits all’ answer.”
Many women report feeling ‘not like themselves’ during perimenopause and menopause. Why does this happen, and how can women maintain their identity and sense of self through this transition?
“A phrase we often hear is, ‘I just don’t feel like myself anymore.’ When sleep is disrupted night after night, or when sudden brain fog, irritability, and exhaustion strike, it directly impacts a woman’s confidence, career and personal relationships. It can make you feel completely detached from the person you’ve always been.
Maintaining your sense of self isn’t about fighting a natural life stage; it is about reclaiming control over your well-being. When women understand what is happening in their bodies and are empowered with tailored, evidence-backed options, they can address their specific challenges effectively. Having targeted choices allows women to feel grounded, clear-headed, and supported, so they can continue feeling like themselves throughout every stage of life.”
What initial steps should a woman take if she suspects she is entering perimenopause or navigating menopause?
“First, don’t wait for symptoms to become overwhelming before seeking support. Many women wait months or years, assuming mood changes or poor sleep are just down to lifestyle stress. I would recommend:
- Tracking your symptoms: Keep a simple daily journal or use a tracking app to spot patterns in your sleep, mood, energy and cycle.
- Consulting healthcare professionals early: Speak with your GP or visit your community pharmacist. Pharmacists are also accessible, highly trained primary healthcare providers who can offer guidance on non-hormonal over-the-counter options tailored to your needs.
- Prioritising holistic well-being: Small lifestyle adjustments can make a difference. This includes regular strength training, reducing alcohol intake, practicing good sleep hygiene and supporting your diet with targeted nutrient support.
Read next: Five tips from an expert on how to simplify your wellness routine.
