Fabulous50s Research Report

Menopause Myths

What Women Really Think

Insights from 2,952 women on the truths, myths, and lived realities of the menopausal transition

2,952

Women Surveyed

59

Average Age

10

Key Findings

Survey Findings

What the Numbers Reveal

Our survey uncovered the most common symptoms, concerns, and experiences women face during menopause, confirming some well-known patterns while challenging long-held assumptions.

85%

Experienced hot flashes
The most commonly reported symptom, confirming hot flashes as a hallmark of the menopause transition.

80%

Don't feel refreshed upon waking
The vast majority of women report poor sleep restoration, pointing to significant impact on daily energy and wellbeing.

78%

Noticed weight shift to the belly
Body fat redistribution from the thighs and hips to the abdomen was reported by a significant majority of women.

70%

Prefer natural remedies over HRT
A strong preference for non-pharmacological approaches to managing menopause symptoms.

63%

Report increased brain fog
Cognitive changes including forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and mental slowness were widely experienced.

60%

Noticed more wrinkles
Declining estrogen affects skin thickness and moisture retention, with the majority of women noticing visible changes.

Myth vs. Reality

Common Myths Women Still Believe

The survey revealed that many women hold on to myths and misconceptions that can shape how they experience menopause. Here are some of the most common ones the data challenged.

Menopause makes you gain weight, and you cannot lose it during or after.

REALITY
While body fat redistribution is common, weight management is absolutely possible with tailored nutrition and exercise.

Menopause automatically decreases your sex drive.

REALITY
75% of surveyed women disagreed that menopause changed their libido. Emotional health, relationships, and body confidence all play a role.

Symptoms like hot flashes and brain fog will only last a short time.

REALITY
Many women experience symptoms for years, and the duration varies widely from person to person.

All women go through the exact same set of menopause symptoms.

REALITY
Every woman's experience is unique. Symptoms, severity, and duration differ widely based on individual factors.

Menopause means you are old and past your prime.

REALITY
Menopause is a natural transition, not a decline. Many women describe post-menopause as a time of renewed confidence and freedom.

HRT is dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

REALITY
While 70% prefer natural remedies, modern HRT options are safe for many women. Talking with a healthcare professional is key.

"75% of women strongly disagreed that menopause changed their sex drive, challenging one of the most persistent myths about this life stage."

Fabulous50s Menopause Survey, 2,952 respondents

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Schellea Fowler

”I want women to wake up and feel proud of the person they are, to not focus on the problems, but the things that they are GREAT at. To discover things that make them shine. To access their inner vitality”

Schellea Fowler, the visionary founder of Fabulous50s, brings over three decades of small business leadership and expertise to her legacy. Not only has she excelled personally, but she has also become a mentor, generously sharing her wealth of experience with emerging entrepreneurs.

After retiring at 50 in 2016, Schellea’s commitment to continuous growth led her to pursue additional qualifications. A qualified fitness instructor, she is presently continuing her master trainer program, specializing in exercise for older adults. Through Fabulous50s, Schellea remains devoted to her vision of empowering and inspiring women to embrace and celebrate their current stage of life.

Her additional qualifications include: Neuro Athletics Coaching Certificate (NACC) from Neuro Athletics, Meditation Teacher Training from Yoga Coach, Fashion Styling from the Australian Style Institute, and Advanced Personal Colour Analysis from AOPI.

Above all, Schellea’s mission is simple yet profound: to support women in embracing the aging process with confidence and grace.

Qualifications