Life stages, loss and grief
When menopause does not come at the expected age and stage of life it may impact more significantly on wellbeing. Associated illnesses, such as cancer and chemotherapy or surgery to remove ovaries, may also alter the course of one’s life. Grief and loss can be more pronounced. Not only is there the loss of control, ability to plan, and loss of self-image, but often there is no one with whom to share grief. Girlfriends may not understand because they are not yet experiencing menopause, and for some, their mothers haven’t reached menopause either.
In fact it may take some time to diagnose an early menopause. Not knowing what is wrong, having no control over symptoms and not knowing what the future holds can be truly frightening. Some women with early menopause talk of ‘loss of womanhood’, and ‘loss of dreams’ in their twenties and thirties with 50 to 60 years left of their life to live. It is really important to identify and work through your feelings. To do this it is important to find a way to say how you’re feeling – are you frustrated, angry, sad? Talking, writing in a journal or diary, drawing and physical activity, such as walking and yoga are all good ways of getting feelings and thoughts out.
| When I was told I had gone through menopause at 22 years of age I couldn’t even talk to my mother about it because she hadn’t even gone through menopause herself. It was important to find someone who understands my situation.
Kate
I am a young woman in an old woman’s body. I feel more like my mother, who is 55, than a young mother of two girls. It doesn’t feel right somehow!
Anne |
Content updated May 04, 2006
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Last Updated ( Monday, 10 December 2007 )
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