Of a Certain Age

Still confused about the difference between compounded and regulated HRT? You’re not alone — and it really matters when it comes to safety, effectiveness, and getting the right treatment.

This clear, evidence-based read from IMC Healthcare cuts through the jargon and helps you understand what your body actually needs — and what to look out for when considering hormone therapy.

Well worth five minutes if you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, or supporting someone who is.

Read it here:

Clearing up the confusion of Compounded vs Regulated Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) | IMC Medical Clinic The use of compounded hormone replacement therapy is increasing to treat the symptoms of menopause, but what does it mean? This article explains the differences between compounded and regulated hormone therapy – what are the side effects and if they are really safe?Clearing up the confusion – Co...

This is heartbreaking.

Jacqueline Anne Potter, a 54-year-old teacher, tragically took her own life while on leave from a psychiatric unit. An inquest revealed that her mental health struggles were significantly worsened by menopause—a factor that went unrecognized for years. The coroner highlighted systemic failures in NHS care, including the lack of mandatory menopause training and the scarcity of specialists. In Somerset, there was reportedly only one menopause specialist available.

Menopause isn’t a lifestyle choice; it’s a natural phase that can profoundly impact mental health. No one should suffer in silence or be left without adequate support.

We need to break the silence, advocate for better care, and ensure that every woman receives the support she deserves during this transition.

www.theguardian.com/society/2025/apr/29/coroner-expresses-concerns-over-nhs-menopause-care-after-death-of-teacher

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out:
• Samaritans: Call 116 123 or email [email protected]

Coroner expresses concerns over NHS menopause care after death of teacher Report follows inquest jury’s conclusion that Jacqueline Anne Potter killed herself after mental health decline

Hot flashes & Night-sweats?

It’s brutal, we know.

Read our article on causes and how to cope:
https://www.oacaonline.com/post/hot-flashes-don-t-sweat-it

Struggling with sleep? You’re not alone.
Around 60% of menopausal women experience insomnia — and it’s not just about tossing and turning. Hormonal changes, night sweats, and mood shifts all play a role in why you’re wide awake at 3am.

We’ve broken down the real causes and symptoms in our latest article — plus solutions to help you finally get some proper rest.

See the full guide via the link in our bio.
You deserve good sleep.

Did you know, up to 60% of women struggle with Insomnia in Menopause?

Menopause can make restful nights feel like a distant dream. From night sweats to hormonal shifts, the challenges are real—but so are the solutions!

Discover why sleep is so hard during menopause and practical steps you can take to reclaim your nights. From cooling devices to natural remedies, we've got you covered.

👉 Read more here: https://www.oacaonline.com/post/menopause-and-insomnia

Your journey to better sleep starts today. 🌟

Why Sleep Is So Hard During Menopause: Menopausal Insomnia and What You Can Do About It Menopausal Insomnia? Can’t sleep? If you’re in perimenopause or postmenopause and finding that sleep has become a rare luxury, you’re in very good company. Around 40–60% of women experience sleep disturbances during menopause — and not the “I stayed up too late watching telly” kind. We...

Are we talking about menopause too late?
New research shows that over half of women aged just 30–35 are already struggling with menopause symptoms — often in silence. It’s time to change the conversation.
Read more here:

Young Women Suffering Menopause Symptoms in Silence A shocking number of young women -- even those 30 to 35 -- are already suffering menopause symptoms, usually in silence.

Microplastics Detected in Human Ovarian Follicular Fluid

For the first time, microplastics have been detected in human ovarian follicular fluid.
A study conducted on 18 women undergoing fertility treatments in Salerno, Italy, found microplastics in 14 participants. These contaminants may affect fertility, hormonal balance, and reproductive health. Researchers emphasise the importance of reducing plastic use, particularly in food preparation and storage, to minimise microplastic intake.

Microplastics found in human o***y follicular fluid for the first time Peer-reviewed study’s findings raises fresh question on the toxic substances’ impact on fertility

Did you know the age you reach menopause might impact your heart health?
Women who experience menopause after 55 may have healthier blood vessels and better cholesterol levels—thanks to longer exposure to estrogen. But once menopause hits, heart disease risk increases for all of us.

This research is a reminder to prioritise heart health during midlife—whether through diet, exercise, or talking to your doctor about treatment options.

Read more about the findings here:
https://www.health.com/menopause-age-heart-health-risk-study-11681357

The Age You Reach Menopause Could Play a Role in Your Future Heart Health, Study Finds A new study suggests that late-onset menopause is linked to better heart health as you age—here's why.

Menopausal weight gain.
Read the why and what you can do to mitigate this: https://www.oacaonline.com/post/menopause-and-weight-loss

Read out article for latest tools and tips: https://www.oacaonline.com/post/menopausalhairloss

Hormonal Hair Loss and Thinning?

Read our article for tips & tools to help stop the drop: https://www.oacaonline.com/post/menopausalhairloss

Menopausal Hair Loss? Reclaim Your Hair's Volume: A Menopausal Woman's Guide to Fuller, Healthier Hair Discover solutions for menopausal hair loss. From thinning to brittle strands, explore products to nourish, strengthen & restore your hair's