Unlocking Menopause: Breaking the Taboos

Unlocking Menopause: Breaking the Taboos

Menopause is not a shut down; it’s a transition— a time to refocus on your health and well-being.

RECLAIMING MENOPAUSE

Menopause is a natural part of life—a transition that every woman will navigate at some point. Yet, despite its universality, menopause has long been misunderstood, over-medicalised, and under-treated. Sharon Cassar Galea, a Functional Medicine Practitioner, Functional Nutritionist, and Holistic Health Coach, is on a mission to shift the narrative around menopause.

With over 15 years of experience as a professional health coach for Diabetes Victoria and a master's in health sciences, Sharon has spent her career educating and empowering women.

From working with CALD women on health education to her current role as an educator in Functional and Integrative Medicine, Sharon combines science and compassion to help women embrace this phase of life naturally and holistically.

Menopause isn’t a disease; it’s a natural progression that deserves understanding, not fear.

WHAT IS MENOPAUSE, REALLY?

Menopause marks the end of menstruation and the natural decline of oestrogen and progesterone production. For many women, this shift begins in their late 30s, with symptoms surfacing during perimenopause. Night sweats, mood swings, memory problems, and hot flushes are just some of the signs that can feel overwhelming.

However, Sharon reminds us that menopause isn’t a disease or a betrayal of the body—it’s a natural progression that deserves understanding, not fear.

In Sharon’s words, “Menopause is often seen as a ‘shut down,’ but it’s not. It’s a transition—a time to refocus on your health and well-being.”

THE OVER-MEDICALISATION OF MENOPAUSE

For decades, menopause has been viewed through the lens of deficiency, with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) being the standard solution.

While HRT has its place, Sharon highlights the risks associated with it, such as heart disease and stroke, as shown in the Women’s Health Initiative Trial in 2002.

Today, many women seek natural alternatives to manage symptoms and maintain overall health.

Declining oestrogen isn’t the end; it’s an opportunity to embrace natural strategies for lifelong health.

A NEW ERA OF MENOPAUSE CONVERSATIONS

Gone are the days when “the change” was a taboo topic. Sharon celebrates the growing openness around menopause, encouraging women to talk about their experiences and seek support.

With education, personalised care, and community, menopause can become a time of renewal rather than a period of decline.

A FUNCTIONAL APPROACH TO MENOPAUSE

Sharon advocates for a holistic approach, focusing on addressing the root causes of discomfort rather than masking symptoms. She emphasises the importance of oestrogen for brain, bone, and heart health, while also acknowledging that declining hormone levels can affect overall well-being.

Through techniques like functional nutrition, herbal remedies, and mindfulness, Sharon helps women navigate menopause naturally and effectively.

“Your menstrual cycle is your sixth vital sign,” Sharon explains. “It can tell us so much about inflammation, nutrient imbalances, and overall health. Understanding this empowers women to take charge of their well-being.”

With the right tools, menopause can become a time of renewal and empowerment for every woman.

TOP 3 TIPS TO OVERCOME MENOPAUSE CHALLENGES

1) Nourish Your Body Naturally

• Focus on whole foods that support hormone balance, like leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Add nutrient-rich herbs such as ashwagandha and evening primrose oil, which can help reduce hot flushes and balance mood.

2) Prioritise Rest and Stress Management

• Menopause is not the time to burn the candle at both ends. Incorporate mindfulness practices like deep breathing, yoga, or even a short daily walk to help regulate stress hormones and improve sleep.

3) Listen to Your Body's Signals

• Your body is always speaking—pay attention to symptoms like fatigue, hot flushes, or low mood. These signals can guide you to what needs adjustment, whether it’s your nutrition, exercise, or even just taking a moment to pause and rest.

When you honour your body during menopause, you unlock a healthier, more balanced version of yourself.

With these simple steps, you can approach menopause with confidence, resilience, and balance.

Sharon’s philosophy reminds us that menopause is a chapter of renewal—an opportunity to embrace natural strategies and take charge of our health.