Podcast episode 33: Best of Menopause Congress 2025
In this podcast, we compile the most powerful insights from the Menopause Congress of October 20, 2025. From hormones and science to self-image, sexuality, and self-care—five experts share how menopause can be the beginning of a new balance.
With contributions by Dr. De Smet , Dr. Craggs , Chloé De Bie , Veerle Raemdonck and Amandine De Paepe, hosted by Evi Hanssen.
Menopause is not a phase
A lot of misinformation still circulates about menopause. Dr. De Smet, a gynecologist and menopause expert, cites a study by Professor De Pypere.
It turned out that 61% of the women surveyed believe menopause is a temporary phase. They assume it's over when their symptoms stop.
Only a minority realizes that menopause is something permanent: the production of estrogen stops and never returns.
Three types of menopausal symptoms
- Hot flashes and irregular cycles. Most women are only aware of these symptoms. When they no longer experience them, they think menopause is "over."
- A second group of complaints is more persistent, such as joint pain. These too are caused by the decline in female hormones, but not everyone realizes this.
- The third group of complaints has the biggest health impact. Many women develop chronic cardiovascular disease, heart and blood vessel problems, osteoporosis, or dementia. These types of complaints are not always noticeable, especially in the beginning.
Make-up sex is fake
Time for sexologist Chloé De Bie. She advocates for more discussion about sex- and does so herself with dedication. There's nothing wrong with using lubricant if you're experiencing vaginal dryness, but perhaps we should first discuss with our partner what turns us on , Chloé believes. "If you've just had a fight, it's understandable that your vagina stays dry- let's not forget that make-up sex in the movies is fake."
“In a sexual relationship, especially during menopause, we need to focus more on quality rather than quantity,” says Chloé.
"Sex during menopause isn't all doom and gloom, it's also an opportunity. You no longer have to worry about unwanted pregnancy. Plus, slow sex is the best sex. And the older you get, the slower things go. So, great. We also see that older people can have a better sex life when they realize they don't have to perform. The only reason is pleasure."
Misconceptions about sex
Sexual pleasure is important because it connects us. And yet even adults still have such a misconception about what sex should be like. The ideal from the cinema, where everything happens naturally.
We expect desire to always come spontaneously, but it doesn't work that way. The older you get and the longer you're together, the less it works that way. Then it takes more to get in the mood.
Chloé: "Spontaneous desire is overrated. Research shows that planned sex is just as good or even better than spontaneous sex. Yes, men need to hear that too!"
Strength training for a faster metabolism
During menopause, it's especially important to take good care of your body. This can be done by exercising and meditating, as well as adjusting your diet.
Belly fat often also means fat around the organs, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. "Weight gain during menopause shouldn't be accepted without a second thought —and I'm not talking about aesthetics, but about your health," says Amandine.
"Strength training is the best way to maintain muscle mass. It helps prevent osteoporosis, and your resting metabolism is also higher when you have more muscle."
A healthy liver
At the same time, you should also eat a little less, because you need fewer calories. Make sure half your plate is filled with vegetables.
Make sure you continue to eat enough protein, as you need it for muscle mass. "If you choose a vegetarian or vegan diet, get guidance," advises Amandine.
“You can certainly still eat carbs, but it is better to do this in the afternoon rather than in the evening, because sugars and carbohydrates accumulate in your liver .”
Growing old healthily and beautifully
Plastic surgeon Barbara Craggs' motto: "Everything is possible, but nothing is required."
As you age, you gradually see deeper wrinkles develop. Your face loses volume, and your skin becomes saggy and develops pigment spots. "We can address this with Botox, fillers, laser treatments, or plastic surgeries."
But the most important thing remains a healthy diet, enough sleep, applying SPF 50, and working out. "Someone who exercises regularly looks at least ten years younger than someone who doesn't."
Tips for flattering outfits
Veerle Raemdonck guides women through styling for a powerful look. "Clothing isn't meant to hide you, but to make you feel good and radiate. Choose quality and natural fabrics that are less likely to sweat."
As your body shape changes, you'll need to adjust your clothing style. For example, choose trousers that flare out at the bottom to balance a slightly heavier upper body. Flat pleats are also flattering, as are A-line dresses and asymmetrical garments.
Still have beautiful legs? Then show them off! And try a different hairstyle or hair color . And finally, add some extra punch to your look with accessories.
