My Journey Through Menopause: From Hysterectomy to Finding Balance with the Right Support

Entering menopause unexpectedly can be a shock, even when you think you’re prepared. My journey began after battling extreme endometriosis from my twenties onward, with symptoms affecting both my personal and professional life. By the time I was 40, the decision to have a hysterectomy felt like the only way forward. I’d known it was time to make the leap, but I was unprepared for the whirlwind of changes that followed.

The Initial Shock: Facing Menopausal Symptoms Overnight

Waking up after my surgery, I was suddenly plunged into full menopause—no gradual transition, just immediate hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, brain fog, and more. I had anticipated some changes, yet nothing truly prepared me for the reality. Menopause symptoms often creep up slowly, but when they come on suddenly, as they did for me, it can feel overwhelming and, at times, like I was losing my mind. I was fortunate to understand what was happening, at least in theory, but I often wonder how other women who enter menopause organically, over time, manage to rationalise their symptoms without feeling that they’re going insane. The struggle is real, and it is often underestimated.

Finding the Right Help: A Menopause Specialist Made All the Difference

For years after my surgery, I struggled with synthetic HRT prescribed by my GP. Patches that were meant to alleviate symptoms actually aggravated them, leaving me frustrated and constantly on edge. The lack of information and options made me feel trapped, and I wondered why we often overlook women’s unique health needs when it comes to HRT. Seeking out a menopause specialist in London turned everything around for me. After years of feeling off-balance, I finally found someone who understood the intricacies of my symptoms and could personalise my care. With the right HRT and expert guidance, my hormones came back into balance, and my quality of life improved immensely.

The relief I felt was indescribable. I’ll always be grateful to my specialist, whose expertise made a world of difference when GP-prescribed options fell short. It was a reminder of how crucial it is for women to have access to specialists who truly understand menopause and the various treatments available.

Symptoms of Menopause and Their Impact on Daily Life

Menopause brings a host of symptoms that can disrupt a woman’s life, both at home and at work. Common symptoms include:

• Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden waves of heat and sweating, often followed by chills.

• Mood Swings and Irritability: Changes in hormone levels can lead to emotional instability.

• Brain Fog and Memory Lapses: Forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating can be frustrating and disorienting.

• Fatigue: A constant feeling of exhaustion, even after a full night’s sleep.

• Anxiety and Depression: Hormonal shifts can lead to heightened anxiety or feelings of sadness.

• Weight Gain and Slowed Metabolism: Metabolism can slow, often leading to weight gain and body changes.

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, resulting in poor rest.

• Joint Pain and Muscle Aches: Aching muscles and joints are common and can worsen with time.

• Physical Discomfort: Hormonal changes can lead to dryness and discomfort, which may affect confidence and overall well-being.

  
  

These symptoms can be overwhelming and may vary in intensity, but they all take a toll on a woman’s quality of life. The effects extend beyond personal discomfort—they impact professional life as well.

The Importance of Supportive Workplaces

For women navigating menopause, a supportive work environment can make a massive difference. Women experiencing these symptoms at work may feel distracted, fatigued, and, at times, less capable of maintaining their usual productivity levels. A lack of awareness or sensitivity from colleagues can add to the pressure, making it harder to cope.

Workplaces that support menopausal women see the benefits in team morale, productivity, and employee retention. Here’s how companies can support their employees:

• Create Awareness: Offer training and resources to educate teams about menopause, helping reduce stigma and fostering a supportive environment.

• Flexible Policies: Allow for flexible working hours or breaks as needed, especially for those dealing with disruptive symptoms.

• Wellness Support: Provide access to wellness programs or medical support, including HRT consultations or therapy for managing stress and anxiety.

• Open Communication: Encourage open discussions about menopause, ensuring women feel comfortable seeking support without fear of judgment.

Reflections and the Need for Greater Awareness

My experience has shown me the difference that informed support and expert care can make. It is vital that we raise awareness about menopause in both medical and professional settings. Women deserve to navigate this phase with dignity and understanding. As a society, we must shift our approach to ensure that menopause is met with empathy, information, and tailored support.

For any woman facing menopause or a sudden transition due to surgery, know that you’re not alone. Seeking out a menopause specialist can be life-changing, and finding the right workplace support can help maintain both your well-being and professional aspirations. Let’s keep championing each other in the workplace and beyond—because when women feel supported, everyone benefits.

For women navigating menopause and its impacts, myexec offers support tailored to meet these unique challenges in both personal and professional contexts. Having been through it myself, I understand how overwhelming and isolating these experiences can feel. At myexec, I’m here to provide guidance, whether it’s through one-on-one coaching, wellness strategies, or creating supportive workplace policies.

My mission is to help women and organisations embrace these life stages with empathy and understanding, ensuring every leader feels empowered and valued. If you're navigating menopause—or supporting someone who is—let’s work together to create a pathway forward that honours both well-being and career growth