Why menopause is often misdiagnosed

Perhaps the biggest reason behind the misdiagnosis of menopause is its symptoms, and how it can misrepresent itself as other conditions like depression and chronic fatigue syndrome².

During perimenopause – the transitionary stage leading up to menopause – your body experiences fluctuating hormone levels, which can cause a range of symptoms that overlap with a range of other conditions.

These symptoms include:

• Mood swings
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Chronic fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• Memory problems
• Joint pains and more³

A misdiagnosis of menopause can lead to these symptoms being improperly treated, and in some cases, extend their duration or severity⁴. It’s important to check in with your treating doctor, General Practitioner or specialist if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, even if you don’t think you’re in the right age bracket.

In New Zealand, the average age of women who begin menopause is 52⁵. However, this transitionary period can happen earlier for some – women who commence perimenopause before the age of 40 experience early or premature menopause.

This can be due to a range of factors, including:

• Genetics
• Women who previously underwent surgery or drug treatments that affect their fertility (e.g. breast cancer and chemotherapy⁶)
• Women who smoke⁷  

Apart from these factors, early menopause can happen to anyone for no definite reason.

One of the most common menopause symptoms is hot flashes and/or night sweats, which up to 80 per cent of women experience during menopause. While these symptoms tend to dissipate within one to two years, making dietary changes can help reduce their occurrence.

Common triggers include caffeine, alcohol and spicy food, while legumes, grains, sage tea, black cohosh and nuts are natural remedies that may help reduce the onset or severity of symptoms. A balanced diet and regular exercise can also help relieve menopausal symptoms⁸. 

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can sometimes be prescribed for women experiencing severe symptoms during perimenopause. It involves an artificial boost of hormone levels – usually a combination of progesterone and oestrogen – to reduce or eliminate menopause symptoms entirely. However, the therapy also brings considerable risks; studies suggest that even short-term use of HRT can increase the risk of acquiring breast cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer and more⁹.

Menopausal symptoms can often impact your quality of life, and if you’re struggling then it’s time to speak to your doctor. Record your symptoms in as much detail as possible – it’s a good idea to keep a journal to record frequency, time and severity of your symptoms.

It’s also a good idea to visit your doctor, treating specialist or gynaecologist when there’s a change in your bleeding patterns (e.g. heavier or an absence of periods)¹⁰. 

Menopausal symptoms vary from woman to woman, and if you’re at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis or heart disease, your doctor might recommend medical treatment¹¹.

Menopause (and perimenopause) is a natural part of every woman’s life cycle, so it’s important to recognise its symptoms and when to see a doctor. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion and get your other preventative health checks in order.