Evening talk series 3.0: Demystifying Menopause
Tuesday 21 October 2025
The third Manly42 Evening Talk tbrought together an engaged local audience for an open, informative, and refreshingly honest conversation about perimenopause and menopause. The evening began with a humourous monologue from Fleabag performed by local actress Liz Jewell.
Our panel consisted of two local expert speakers Dr Anjali Didi, a General Practitioner and Clinical Lecturer at the University of Sydney with a special interest in women’s health, and Ava Loiskandl, a Manly-based Women’s Health Physiotherapist.
Understanding the Basics
Dr Didi opened with the fundamentals: defining perimenopause (the time. period leading up to menopause) and menopause itself (12 months without a period). Many early signs such as mood swings, irregular cycles and sleep disturbances are often overlooked, or masked for those on contraception. She explained that perimenopause can last many years, typically beginning in the early-to-mid 40s, with menopause itself occuring around age 50.
Ava described how declining oestrogen affects tissues, muscles, and joints, reducing collagen and elasticity throughout the body. This not only contributes to joint and pelvic discomfort but also impacts the cardiovascular system. She emphasised that one-sided hip pain, joint stiffness, and pelvic heaviness are common and often overlooked signs of this hormonal shift.
Brain, Mood and Energy
We discussed how hormonal changes alter brain chemistry, explaining the biological basis for “brain fog,” anxiety, and mood fluctuations. Nutrition and stable blood sugar levels can play a vital role in managing mental clarity and mood stability. We examined the pitfalls of fasting or overdoing high-intensity workouts, suggesting instead restorative exercise, regular resistance training and adequate rest are needed for the body.
Relationships, Identity and Physical Wellbeing
Hormonal changes can influence libido and intimacy, often affecting confidence and relationships. Ava highlighted how reconnecting with the body through movement and pelvic floor awareness can restore a sense of identity and strength.
On treatment options, Dr Didi clarified widespread confusion around Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). She explained that it’s a highly individualised treatment that requires ongoing monitoring with your GP. Ava also mentioned the use of local oestrogen, delivered via pessaries, can be particularly effective for pelvic dryness and bladder symptoms.
Both speakers reinforced the importance of lifestyle in symptom management — balanced nutrition, strength training, increased protein intake for menopausal women (around 1.2g per kg of body weight - which is A LOT), and sufficient Vitamin D. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and watercress were recommended for their hormone-balancing properties. Fibre intake and gut health also play a crucial role in symptom management such as bloating, and different types of fibre ferment in different parts of the gut.
Long-Term Health
Looking beyond menopause, Ava stressed that maintaining bone density through impact and resistance training is vital. Physiotherapy benefits become noticeable after around 12 weeks of consistent practice, reinforcing the need for patience and commitment to treatment plans. Dr Didi addressed the long-term health implications of menoapuse — from cardiovascular to musculoskeletal — and encouraged women to stay proactive about regular screening available in Australia via their GP.
Cultural Change
Both speakers called for more open dialogue — at home, in workplaces, and especially among men — to improve understanding and reduce stigma. Some workplaces are even introducing menopause leave or educational sessions to support women at this stage.
Audience members shared personal stories and questions, in one case sharing factual information with partners helped improve logical understanding and empathy. The evening closed with thanks to Dr Didi, Ava, and Liz, and an invitation to stay connected through the manly42 newsletter for future events.
Above all, the night’s message was to keep moving in whatever way is best for YOU and surround yourself with a group of friends you can talk openly with as you navigate this time of change.
For further resources, the speakers recommended Dr Jean Hailes for Women’s Health and the work of Dr John Eden, an endocrinologist and gynaecologist known for his evidence-based menopause research. Anjali has a practice in both the Northern Beaches and Surry Hills and Ava can be found at SquareOne in Manly.
The information shared during this event and in this summary is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your GP, healthcare provider, or a qualified nutritionist for personalised medical or nutritional guidance.
