Navigating the Change: What Your Pharmacist Wants You to Know About Menopause

Q: “Menopause seems to be a hot-button topic as of late. What is something that most people don’t think about regarding menopause, and how can a pharmacist help with that?”

Pharmacist: Yes, menopause has become a much more visible topic in recent years. That’s largely because we are seeing more research and innovation leading to better care focused on supporting women through this stage of life.

One thing many people don’t realize is just how long this phase can last. Perimenopause can begin in your 40s, and with the average woman in Canada living into her mid-80s, that means nearly half of a woman’s life is spent in the peri- to post-menopausal years! It is important to emphasize that menopause is a natural part of aging, not a disease or disorder. However, much like puberty, it involves a substantial hormonal shift that can have wide-ranging effects on the body.

As the body transitions through menopause, ovarian function gradually declines, which leads to a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. While these hormones are often thought of primarily as “reproductive,” estrogen in particular plays a key role in regulating many other systems in the body.

One area that is frequently overlooked is its impact on metabolic health, including fat distribution and insulin sensitivity. These changes can influence a woman’s risk for metabolic conditions, yet they are not always part of the menopause conversation. Menopause can serve as an important reminder for women to check in on their overall health as their bodies undergo these significant changes.

Our team of pharmacists can play a key role in supporting women during this transition. In our pharmacy, we offer quick point-of-care testing, including a five-minute hemoglobin A1c test to assess average blood sugar levels and a seven-minute cholesterol or lipid panel. These tests can provide a starting point into how your body is responding to the changes during menopause.

We pair this with a one-on-one personalized consultation reviewing your health history and talk through medication and lifestyle options that may best suit you. We also work closely with your physicians and naturopathic doctors, so you can have seamless care and feel supported and confident throughout this stage of life. Book and A1c/lipid test today to get started!