By: John Glover (MBA)
When you hear the word “menopause,” what comes to mind? For some, it may evoke thoughts of physical changes like hot flashes or mood swings, while for others, it might be a distant concept not yet on their radar. Regardless of perspective, menopause is a natural phase of life that many women will experience, yet it remains an often under-discussed topic.
World Menopause Day, observed annually on October 18, aims to change this by raising awareness and promoting open dialogue about menopause. As a significant transition in a woman’s life, menopause can have lasting effects on health and well-being. However, many women feel unprepared for this phase, and conversations surrounding it can be limited.
Proov CEO Amy Beckley highlights the importance of this awareness day, stating that “menopause can be such a vulnerable time for women,” making it essential to provide support at every stage of life. She also notes that “most women will spend the majority of their lives in menopause,” which underscores the need for earlier conversations and better preparation.
For many, menopause is associated with symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances, which can impact a woman’s quality of life. Despite these common experiences, many women feel uncertain about what menopause entails and how to manage it effectively. World Menopause Day seeks to address this gap by encouraging more discussion and education on the topic.
Beckley emphasizes the need for continued awareness beyond just one day. “Menopause can be hard for women to go through,” she explains, stressing the importance of ensuring that women are aware of their options for self-care. While World Menopause Day draws attention to menopause, she believes it “should be talked about more often” to help women feel comfortable managing their health.
Menopause is a personal experience that varies greatly from one woman to another. Some women may go through the transition smoothly, while others face more significant challenges. Hormonal changes can trigger a range of symptoms, and many women feel unprepared to handle them due to a lack of resources and guidance.
Beckley points out that although “there are so many resources available to help guide women and give them answers about their bodies,” too often, women are left with unanswered questions because these conversations don’t happen frequently enough. This gap in communication and support can leave women feeling isolated as they navigate menopause.
The lack of open dialogue about menopause is not only a cultural issue but also a public health concern. Conversations about women’s health often overlook menopause, leading to a lack of information and resources for those going through it. World Menopause Day offers a platform to challenge this silence, but it also serves as a reminder that discussions around menopause need to be continuous.
Greater awareness and understanding of menopause are crucial, not only for women going through it but for their families, healthcare providers, and communities. By fostering open dialogue, we can create a more supportive environment that helps women confidently navigate this stage of life.
In Beckley’s words, “women’s health cannot go unnoticed.” Menopause, like puberty or pregnancy, is a natural life stage, yet it is often underappreciated in broader health discussions. The symptoms and challenges women face deserve attention, and reliable information and support should be readily available.
As we observe World Menopause Day, it’s important to recognize that the conversation shouldn’t end here. While the day raises awareness, it reminds us that menopause is a vital health issue that requires ongoing attention. Normalizing these discussions will ensure that women feel informed and empowered to take control of their health during this time.
By promoting continuous education, access to resources, and open conversations about menopause, we can help women better manage this significant life transition.
Published by: Khy Talara
