Davina Mccall Sex Myths And The Menopause

So, you've probably heard Davina McCall chatting about menopause on her podcast or TV shows. She's like that friend who's always ready to spill the tea, except this time, it's about something we all go through - menopause. Now, you might be thinking, "Menopause? Isn't that something my mum worries about?" Well, yes, but also, it's something you'll probably experience too, and it's high time we talked about it.

Let's bust some myths, shall we?

First things first, let's clear up some misconceptions. Menopause isn't just about hot flushes and mood swings. It's a natural part of aging, like going grey or getting wrinkles. It's when your body stops producing eggs, and your periods stop. Simple, right?

Now, you might have heard that menopause is something that happens overnight. Wrong! It's more like a slow dance than a quick tango. It's called the perimenopause, and it can start years before menopause actually happens. Imagine it like when you're trying to quit coffee. You might cut down gradually before finally giving it up. That's perimenopause for you.

Hot flushes: The party crasher

Hot flushes are like that unexpected guest who shows up at your party and starts dancing on the tables. You didn't invite them, but there they are, making a scene. They can happen at any time, and they're not just about feeling hot. Some people get sweaty, others get red-faced, and some even experience heart palpitations. Fun times, right?

But here's the thing, hot flushes are different for everyone. Some people might only have a few, while others might feel like they're living in a sauna. And they don't just happen when you're sitting at home. Oh no, they love a good public appearance. Imagine being on a packed tube during rush hour, and suddenly, you're the human equivalent of a radiator. Not ideal, but it happens.

Sex: The great unknown

Now, let's talk about the big 'S' word. Sex. Menopause can make sex feel different, and that's okay. Your body is changing, and that's going to affect how you feel about sex. Some people might find they're not in the mood as often, while others might find their libido skyrockets. It's all normal, and it's all okay.

One of the big changes is vaginal dryness. It's like when you leave a bottle of wine open, and it starts to evaporate. Your vagina can do the same thing, and that can make sex uncomfortable. But don't worry, there are lots of things you can do to help. Lubricants are like the fairy godmother of sex during menopause. They can turn an uncomfortable situation into a magical one.

And remember, sex isn't just about penetration. It's about intimacy, connection, and pleasure. So, if you're not feeling up for penetrative sex, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy yourself and your partner.

Mood swings: The emotional rollercoaster

Menopause can also make your emotions feel like they're on a rollercoaster. One minute you're laughing, the next you're crying over a commercial for pet food. It's like being a teenager all over again, but with the added bonus of wrinkles and grey hair.

But here's the thing, these mood swings are normal. Your hormones are all over the place, and that's going to affect your emotions. But that doesn't mean you should just accept them and carry on. If you're feeling down, talk to someone. It could be a friend, a family member, or a healthcare professional. They're there to help, and they won't judge you.

Why should you care?

So, why should you care about menopause? Well, firstly, it's going to happen to you, or someone you know. It's a natural part of life, and it's nothing to be ashamed of. Secondly, understanding menopause can help you support the people around you who are going through it. It's like when you learn about someone's culture or religion. The more you know, the better you can understand and support them.

And finally, talking about menopause can help break down the stigma surrounding it. It's like when you talk about periods and suddenly, everyone feels a bit more comfortable. The more we talk about menopause, the more normal it becomes, and the less scary it seems.

So, let's start the conversation. Let's talk about menopause like we talk about anything else. Let's laugh about the hot flushes, share our tips for managing mood swings, and celebrate the fact that sex can still be amazing, even when your body is changing. Because menopause is a part of life, and it's high time we started treating it like one.