Many women experience a challenging period during perimenopause and menopause, with symptoms ranging from anxiety and nightmares to uncontrollable rage, fatigue, itchy ears, and more. This can be a confusing time, yet there is limited detailed, unbiased, and practical information available. Abu Dhabi resident Ann Marie McQueen decided to address this gap. Inspired by her own struggles through perimenopause, she launched the menopause platform Hotflash inc in 2020, which now connects with 50,000 women worldwide.
"It all began when I hit a wall in my early 40s," McQueen told Khaleej Times. "I had trouble sleeping, anxiety, panic attacks, and severe nightmares. I developed a fear of flying and experienced strange physical symptoms like unusual headaches and chest pains. None of the doctors I consulted could provide a clear answer. When I missed a period at 47, I started researching and realized I was going through perimenopause."
With a 30-year career specializing in health and wellness, McQueen noticed that most information about perimenopause was either superficial, fear-inducing, or product-focused. She said, "Menopause is often reduced to physical symptoms and attributed to falling oestrogen levels. But there's much more to it. It's both a challenging and empowering time, with some theorists believing it's when women finally become who they were meant to be."
McQueen added that there are over 100 symptoms of menopause. "As hormones readjust, it affects every part of your body. Symptoms like itchy ears, a burning mouth, crawling sensations on your skin, or sudden coldness are rarely discussed. These can be frightening if you don't understand them. Menopause is a crucial life transition, hitting you all at once, so preparation is key."
She noted that habits such as undereating, overworking, and overexercising can worsen symptoms. While some specialists recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to ease side effects, others advocate natural methods like dietary supplements. McQueen occupies a middle ground, incorporating various theories. "I advise every woman to do their own research, listen to their body, and find what works for them. My goal is to help as many women as possible navigate their transitions smoothly," she explained.
Communications consultant Rebecca Rees from Dubai shared similar experiences starting at 43. "I had crippling migraines and anxiety, and the brain fog was awful. I'd start a conversation and forget what I was going to say, or do silly things like finding my car keys in the fridge. The worst symptom was hot flashes, which struck day and night for 10 years and still occur occasionally. Once, during a meeting with five men, I was dripping with sweat. I pretended I had the flu. Afterward, one man took me aside and said, 'My wife is going through the same thing. I feel for you.' I nearly cried from his kindness," Rees added.
PR professional Maria Stapleton developed PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) at 42. "I had extreme suicidal thoughts, became extremely angry for no reason, and was neurotic and paranoid. I was convinced everyone was out to get me," she admitted. "I'm still seeking the perfect treatment but have improved. I avoid hormone therapy, opting for IV drips to maintain optimal vitamin and mineral levels, tracking my cycle, seeing a therapist, and explaining my situation to my family."
With growing awareness, the first GCC Menopause Summit took place this month, initiated by Dubai-based women's health and menopause coach Sharon James. She said, "Changes began around 46. I was fit and healthy but noticed I was tiring more quickly and losing muscle strength. Cutting out meat and dairy helped restore my energy. I chose not to do HRT as my symptoms were never severe, likely due to my healthy lifestyle. Knowledge is key to understanding menopause and your stage. If symptoms impact daily life, seek help."
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