Menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, yet it's surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to unnecessary worry and confusion. Many believe that menopause happens overnight, makes pregnancy impossible, or automatically leads to weight gain and a loss of libido. But how much of this is actually true?
To set the record straight, we spoke with Dr. Zetch Cruz-Ram, also known as Doc Z, Medical Director of Doctor Anywhere, to debunk some of the most common myths about menopause. Let’s understand what really happens during menopause and how you can navigate it with confidence!
Myth 1: Once Menopause Starts, Pregnancy Is Impossible
Fact: Pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause.
"That's a myth. Pregnancy is still possible if you're in the perimenopausal stage," says Doc Z. "You cannot be clinically diagnosed as menopausal unless you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period. If your periods are still irregular, there is still a chance of conception."
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause when hormone levels fluctuate, sometimes allowing ovulation to still occur. According to the Mayo Clinic, while fertility declines significantly, pregnancy is not impossible until menopause is confirmed. Women who want to avoid pregnancy should continue using contraception until a doctor confirms menopause.
Myth 2: Menopause Only Affects Your Periods
Fact: Menopause impacts the entire body.
"It actually affects our entire body because of the hormones involved," explains Doc Z. "As estrogen levels drop, women experience symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and even an increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease."
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density and heart health. This is why women are more susceptible to osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease post-menopause. Health experts recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements, along with a balanced diet and weight-bearing exercises, to support bone and heart health.
Myth 3: Menopause Causes a Permanent Loss of Libido
Fact: Menopause does not necessarily lead to a permanent decrease in sexual desire.
"That’s a myth again," says Doc Z. "While hormonal changes can affect libido, the decline in sexual desire is often linked to mood swings, sleep disturbances, and stress rather than menopause itself."
Interestingly, in some cultures, women report increased sexual satisfaction post-menopause because they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. Harvard Medical School confirms that while menopause can bring changes to sexual health, factors like open communication with a partner, stress management, and vaginal moisturizers can help maintain intimacy.
Myth 4: Menopause Happens Overnight
Fact: Menopause is a gradual process.
"It’s a gradual process," explains Doc Z. "It starts with irregular periods. You might think you’re pregnant or suddenly notice heavier flows. But you can only be diagnosed as menopausal if you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months."
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight that perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to several years before a woman reaches full menopause. During this transition, hormone levels fluctuate, causing various symptoms, which can be managed with lifestyle changes and, in some cases, hormone therapy.
Myth 5: Menopause Always Leads to Weight Gain
Fact: Weight gain is not inevitable.
"It’s not menopause itself that causes weight gain," says Doc Z, "but rather the changes in metabolism, lifestyle, and physical activity. Hormonal shifts can make it easier to gain weight, but maintaining a healthy diet and staying active can prevent unwanted weight gain."
According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), factors like age-related muscle loss and a slower metabolism contribute to weight gain in midlife. However, regular exercise, portion control, and stress management can help maintain a healthy weight.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Doc Z advises women to see a doctor when they experience symptoms that affect their daily lives. "If you're experiencing hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or mood swings that make you feel uncomfortable, you should seek medical advice. A doctor can help determine whether your symptoms are due to perimenopause or another underlying condition," she explains.
Consulting a doctor early on can help women explore treatment options like lifestyle adjustments, supplements, or hormone therapy to ease symptoms. For convenient and discreet doctor consultations, you can use the Doctor Anywhere app. See a licensed doctor online via video call and get the care you need from the comfort of your home.
You can also subscribe to DA Healthwise annual health plan for just ₱99/year. Enjoy 24/7 discounted video consultations with doctors anytime, anywhere!
Unlike traditional health insurance plans with fixed monthly fees, DA Healthwise operates on a pay-per-use basis. This means you only pay for doctor consultations when you need them, eliminating the burden of monthly premiums.
DA Healthwise subscribers will get discounted rates on all video consultations with a variety of healthcare professionals, all conveniently accessible through the Doctor Anywhere app:
General Practitioners (GPs): Consult with licensed primary care physicians such as general practitioners, internal medicine doctors, or family medicine practitioners 24/7, on-demand or by appointment, including holidays, with wait times under 5 minutes, for only ₱509 (originally priced at ₱550).
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If you subscribe to DA Healthwise, you can also enjoy exclusive perks from Doctor Anywhere's health and wellness partner merchants, including:
MyHealth Clinic: Discounted rates on comprehensive executive check-up packages
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One-time use per account for the first video consultation. Valid for new Doctor Anywhere users who haven’t had a video consultation yet. Promo runs from Jan. 1, 2025 - Dec. 31, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-192282 Series of 2024. *Promo runs from May 1, 2024 - Apr. 30, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-192282 Series of 2024. ^Promo runs from June 3, 2024 to June 2, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-194645 Series of 2024. Visit https://www.doctoranywhere.ph/promos-and-discounts for more information.
Sources:
1. Dr. Cruz-Ram, Zetch. Interviewed on 26 February 2025.
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