Menopause Awareness – How We’ve Been Let Down by Reproductive Education

As a menopause nurse specialists and on HRT ourselves, we know firsthand the struggles people face when navigating their reproductive health. Today marks the beginning of Menopause Awareness Month, and it’s a great opportunity to discuss how gaps in reproductive education have left many of us uninformed about our reproductive health and the changes that come with menopause.

From puberty to menopause and beyond, reproductive health education often falls short. Many of us are taught only the basics: managing periods and avoiding pregnancy. But what about the rest of our reproductive journey? Why aren’t we talking about fertility, aging, and the menopause transition? This lack of comprehensive education leaves many feeling unprepared and confused when their bodies begin to change.

The Problem: Lack of Education in Schools

In most educational settings, reproductive health education is incomplete. The primary focus is often on menstruation and pregnancy prevention, both important topics but far from the full picture. Young people need to understand their entire reproductive journey, including how their fertility changes over time and what to expect from their bodies as they age.

One of the biggest gaps is education about reproductive timelines. We see stories in the media of people having children at older ages, often thanks to medical advancements. This can give the impression that we can delay having children indefinitely. But the truth is, fertility begins to decline as we age, and delaying parenthood isn’t always as simple as it may seem. Without this critical information, many people are left feeling misled or unprepared when it comes time to make decisions about starting a family.

Reproductive Incongruence: Balancing Career, Family, and Health

In today’s world, many of us want to have it all—a fulfilling career, personal goals, and a family. But balancing these aspirations with the reality of our reproductive health can be challenging. Society has evolved, encouraging us to prioritise education, careers, and financial stability, but our biological clocks haven’t changed at the same pace.

For those who choose to pursue parenthood later in life, it can be surprising to learn that it’s not always as easy as anticipated. In some cases, the early stages of perimenopause—where hormone levels fluctuate—may already be underway. This can make it even more difficult to conceive, leaving many feeling unprepared and unsupported.

The Menopause Journey: Gradual, Not Sudden

Menopause doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process, typically beginning with perimenopause, a stage marked by hormonal shifts and changes in the menstrual cycle. During this time, symptoms such as irregular periods, mood swings, and hot flashes can start to appear. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that menopause is a journey, not an event, and they are caught off guard by these changes.

It’s essential to understand that menopause is a unique experience for everyone. What works for managing symptoms today may not be effective in a few years, and it’s crucial to stay informed about evolving treatments and support options. As women on HRT, we are constantly adjusting our approach to ensure we are meeting our body’s needs as they change.

Closing the Education Gap: A Call for Comprehensive Reproductive Health Education

To truly support all people, we need inclusive, comprehensive reproductive health education. This should cover the full spectrum of the reproductive journey—from puberty to menopause and beyond. It’s time to move beyond just periods and pregnancy prevention and provide a more complete understanding of fertility, reproductive aging, and the menopause transition.

This Menopause Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to learn more about their own bodies, ask questions, and seek out the support they deserve. Together, we can create a more inclusive conversation about reproductive health, ensuring that future generations are better informed and prepared for their entire journey.