Body image is the way we think, feel and picture our body. From childhood through adolescence and on to adulthood, body shape changes and sometimes so does our body image.  

Menopause

With perimenopause and menopause, there is often a shift in fat deposits from the lower to the central body. Negative body image may be a problem for some women going through menopause, particularly their distress at a perceived increase in weight. Symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes, can make women feel differently about their body image too. Often women report that they do not know their body anymore and are frustrated by the changes - "I used to know what to expect from my body, now it is like my body is not under my control". Other women decide that they have spent enough of their lives worrying about their body image and would rather focus on having a healthy body.

Emotional Wellbeing and Body Image

There is no doubt that having a negative body image can influence mood, self esteem and sexuality. Further, society's negative views of ageing women can be very undermining. If body image is troubling you and you feel a negative view of your body interferes with your daily life it would be helpful to seek some advice and support.

Weight and Body Image

Weight is known to increase with age, and midlife is often a time known for weight gain.
The risk of lifestyle related diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease increase with weight gain. Menopause is a great time in a woman’s life to think about ways to prevent weight gain and improve health. It is never too late to modify lifestyle and optimise health and wellbeing.

Useful Resources for Body Image

Physical Activity

Adults need at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (such as walking) most days of the week

Nutrition through life (from our Ageing Well website)

Food variety has been shown to benefit health and improve longevity

Nutrition

Healthy eating and dietary recommendations

Content updated October 23, 2009