10 post-menopause benefits

What to look forward to once the hot flushes and night sweats are done. Surprising post-menopause benefits.

By Jane Murphy | Published - 5 Oct 2015 | Updated - 10 Jun 2024

1. Your memory will improve

Many of us see forgetfulness as an inevitable part of ageing – but there’s strong evidence to suggest that our memories actually improve after the menopause.

Around 60 per cent of women suffer a temporary decline in memory during the menopause, according to a University of California study. But note the word ‘temporary’. Researchers found that learning capacity returned to pre-menopausal levels after the menopause.

2. You’ll sleep better

If night sweats have been wreaking havoc with your sleep patterns, you’ll already be looking forward to a good night’s slumber when they finally subside.

In fact, aside from a brief blip in middle age, our all-round sleep quality actually appears to improve as we grow older. A University of Pennsylvania study of 150,000 US adults found the fewest sleep complaints among the over-70s.

3. You’ll be much happier

Feeling down and disheartened during the menopause? Don’t worry: you’re set to cheer up very soon.

According to a study at the London School of Economics, our satisfaction levels reach their lowest point during our mid-50s, but start to rise again soon after – peaking at the age of 69.

4. You’ll be less disappointed

Here’s another cheering statistic from that London School of Economics study: at 68, people underestimate their future happiness by 4.5 per cent.

Or, to put it another way: we think our future is going to be slightly worse than it actually turns out to be.

That may not sound hugely positive – but compare this to the great expectations you had in your 20s, and the disappointment you felt when all your dreams didn’t come true after all. Age teaches you acceptance and appreciation, and to be satisfied with your lot.

5. You’ll feel much calmer

An end to the menopause means an end to the often debilitating mood swings that are triggered by hormonal changes. And if you’d spent the previous 40 years suffering from PMS every month, you’ll be even more relieved to finally see the back of your periods.

6. You’ll suffer fewer headaches

Headaches – and migraines in particular – can often be triggered by hormone fluctuations and stress, both of which are prevalent throughout the menopause.

The good news? Around 67 per cent of women find that their migraines go away entirely or improve significantly after the menopause, according to another study.

7. You could have the best sex ever

Think your most satisfying times between the sheets are over? Not necessarily so! More than 60 per cent of over-65s enjoy a fulfilling sex life, according to an Age UK survey.

And a University of San Diego study found that 67% of sexually active older women achieve an orgasm ‘most of the time’ or ‘always’.

Co-author Dr Susan Trompeter commented: “Not only were the oldest women in this study the most satisfied overall, those who were recently sexually active experienced orgasm satisfaction rates similar to the youngest participants.”

8. You’ll feel more confident

Coping with menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings and disturbed sleep can knock your body confidence for six. But once things settle down again, there’s a good chance you'll feel a lot better about your appearance. After all, experience has told you how to look your best.

In fact, women feel most confident in their beachwear after the age of 55, according to a survey of 2,000 people for TK Maxx.

9. You’ll have fewer colds

As we age, we spend less time fighting off the sniffles – simply because our immune systems learn to deal with familiar viruses. The average 50-something catches half the amount of colds as a teenager, for example.

And while we’re on the topic of sniffles, you may be pleased to hear that you’re less likely to suffer from hay fever as you grow older, too.

10. You’ll have more freedom

Reaching retirement age means you could have more time to do the things you enjoy doing – unencumbered by menopause symptoms, of course.

So, if you have got some extra free time then make the most of it: see more of your friends, travel and maybe even take up some new hobbies.

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