UBCNews - Business - Positive Aspects Of Menopause: Experts Explore The Often-Overlooked Side

Episode Date: November 16, 2025

Have you ever wondered why menopause gets such a negative reputation when it's actually a natural transition that affects half the population? I'm here with our guest today to examine the often-overlooked positive aspects of this life stage that many women between 45 and 55 are experiencing perimenopause, the transition period leading up to menopause. Wordsmith World City: Big Spring Address: Texas Website: https://bettyjohansen.com/

Have you ever wondered why menopause gets such a negative reputation when it's actually a natural transition that affects half the population? I'm here with our guest today to examine the often overlooked positive aspects of this life stage that many women between 45 and 55 are experiencing perimenopause, the transition period leading up to menopause. You know that's such an important question. The reality is there's been a stigma surrounding menopause for years, with many women seeing it as something negative they had to deal with alone. But when we look at the research and listen to women's actual experiences, there are some unexpected benefits that rarely get discussed. Right, and I think part of the problem is that we focus so heavily on the challenges,

the hot flashes, mood changes, all of that. But what are some of these positive aspects that women might not even realize they can look forward to? Well, let's start with something that many women cite as the best thing about menopause. The end of menstruation. I mean, think about it. By the time menopause arrives, most women have had hundreds of periods over the course of their lives. That's a lot of cramping, PMS, and planning life of life. around your cycle.

Mm-hmm, that's a relief. Exactly. We're talking about freedom from bleeding, cramping, and pre-menstrual syndrome, which affects up to 75% of women who have periods. Plus, women with conditions like uterine fibroids and endometriosis often get long-lasting relief when they reach menopause because these conditions are affected by monthly hormonal cycles. That's fascinating, and I imagine there are benefits beyond just the physical symptoms?

Oh, definitely. One of the most significant benefits is the elimination of pregnancy risk. In the U.S., about 65% of women use birth control during their reproductive years, and many of those methods come with their own side effects. After menopause, you can stop using contraceptives entirely. No more remembering to take that pill every day. Ha, right, and I bet that affects intimacy too. Absolutely.

Many women report increased enjoyment of sex because they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. There's this sense of sexual freedom that can be really liberating. That point about sexual freedom sets up our next. Next piece, the emotional benefits. But first, a quick word from our sponsor. Looking to explore the positive side of life transitions like menopause? Check out Dancing Through Menopause by Betty Johansson,

a heartfelt guide that celebrates change, resilience, and the joy that comes with this new chapter of life. If you're ready to see this transition in a whole new light, grab your copy of Dancing Through Menopause today at the link in the description. Picking up on that sexual freedom, how do you handle the broader emotional changes that come with menopause? This is where things get really interesting. Many women experience what anthropologist Margaret Mead called post-menopausal cess. Basically, a renewed enthusiasm for life.

There's actually research showing that optimism tends to increase in a woman's 50s. I love that term, post-menopausal zest. What does that look like in practical terms for women going through this? Well, it often comes down to confidence and freedom. Many women feel more established in their relationships, careers, and sense of self during these years. Without the monthly mood swings from hormonal fluctuations, they can focus their time and energy on what matters most to them. I had one patient tell me she felt like she finally had permission to put herself first after years of putting everyone else's needs before her own.

That's such a powerful shift, that renewed zest for life really does seem transformative. Are there any other physical changes that might surprise people in a positive way? Actually, yes. And this one might sound unusual, but lower estrogen levels can lead to three. thinning of body hair for some women, while others may experience increased facial hair. It's one of those changes that varies from person to person, but for those who see less body hair, it can mean less time spent on hair removal. I see, interesting. And here's another one. Breast tissue can become less dense after menopause for some women, which may improve mammogram

clarity. This means clearer pictures during annual screenings and potentially fewer callbacks for additional imaging tests. So to everyone listening who might be approaching this life stage, what would you want them to know about reframing their perspective on menopause? Menopause is a natural transition, not a disease. While it does bring challenges, it can also be a beginning, a time for growth, change, and that's a time. that renewed focus on your own well-being. The key is being open with your health care provider about your experience and accepting both the ups and downs of this transition.

That's such an empowering way to think about it. Thank you for helping us uncover these positive aspects that often get overlooked. For more insights on life's transitions, visit the link in the description.