Women's health myths, busted

When it comes to women’s health, misinformation is everywhere. From outdated advice to persistent myths, it’s easy to be misled about what’s really best for your body. That’s why we asked our experts, "What’s one women’s health myth you wish more people knew the truth about?"

Their answers might surprise you—but more importantly, they’ll empower you with the facts to take charge of your health with confidence.

Myth: "Sleep apnea is just a male issue."

What Dr Moira Junge, Registered Health Psychologist, says:

Did you know that once women reach menopause, their risk of sleep apnea becomes just as high as men’s? So it’s more common than many realise. If you often feel excessively sleepy during the day and are a loud snorer, sleep apnea may be the cause. 

Many women assume that feeling exhausted is just part of menopause, a busy job, or parenting, but struggling to stay awake - especially dozing off accidentally - isn’t normal. If you’re experiencing both tiredness and excessive sleepiness, along with snoring, talk to a healthcare professional about getting a referral for a sleep study.

Myth: "Carbs are the enemy."

What Simone Austin, Advanced Sports Dietitian, says:

It’s not about cutting carbs; it’s about choosing the right ones and the right amount for you. Whole grains and cereals like rice, oats and quinoa have essential fibre for gut health, which plays a huge role in overall wellbeing. With all the talk about gut health, it’s surprising how often the link to whole grains is overlooked. 

A fist-sized serve of quality carbs at each meal is enough for most people, and they’re nutritious, delicious and one of the most affordable parts of our diet! Try cooking extra brown rice or experimenting with grains like freekeh for a nourishing salad.

Myth: "All women get hot flushes in menopause."

What Sarah Gray, Registered Pharmacist & Nutritionist, says:

Hot flushes are one just potential symptom during perimenopause and menopause. Every woman’s journey is unique, so naturally, the symptoms they experience, as well as the duration and severity, will vary. Despite being well known, hot flushes are not the most common symptom in this phase of life. 

The first symptoms are usually irregular or inconsistent periods. Other symptoms include night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood instability, low libido and vaginal dryness. And it is estimated that 15% of women experience no physical changes during this time except for the eventual loss of menstrual periods.

Myth: "Lifting weights makes women masculine and bulky."

What Kate Agnew, Accredited Practising Dietitian, says:

Masculine and being 'bulky' is not the case for most women due to our naturally lower levels of testosterone. Research has shown that strength training helps to build muscle which protects bones, supports a healthy metabolism and is also linked to improved self confidence. 

It’s best to work with a trainer who can design a program for your needs and don’t forget to make it fun! We are more likely to stick to an exercise routine when we enjoy it.

Myth: "Your period is useless unless you’re trying to get pregnant."

What Gabbie Watt, Qualified Naturopath, says:

Your period isn’t just a monthly inconvenience; it’s a vital sign of your overall health. Understanding your cycle is a powerful tool, offering insights into your energy levels, sleep, nutrition, exercise, and mood. 

If your period is excessively painful or unusually heavy, don’t just put up with it. Talk to a healthcare professional to find out what’s going on and how to support your hormones.

Myth: "You can't get heart disease until you're older, and heart disease mostly affects men anyway."

What Soumya Pandya, Registered Pharmacist, says:

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women globally, and almost every hour of every day an Australian woman dies of heart disease. Heart disease in women can occur at any age, but the risk changes throughout life's course, generally once a woman hits menopause as they produce less oestrogen, but can affect women at any age. 

For women aged 45 and over (or 30 and over for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women), speak to your GP about your risk of heart attack and stroke and have a Heart Health Check.

Related articles:

• 5 questions for women to ask their doctors about their heart
• What to eat in perimenopause to thrive (not just survive)
• Supplements for women's health through each life stage

Reviewed by Healthylife health experts March 2025