The positive story of menopause
The positive story of menopause. We’re aware that menopause can feel like a big dark cloud looming overhead, but what we don’t seem to notice or celebrate so easily, are the silver linings that come with it. All over the world there is a growing awareness of menopause. People are speaking up more, challenging taboo’s and even celebrating the changes that can come with the menopause transition. It has become clear that where there is greater access to information and awareness, women can begin to feel more positive and prepared for changes that menopause brings.
Menopause, just like periods or pregnancy, is a natural part of the life cycle of each woman and it can bring wisdom and freedom. Although it is often viewed negatively through the lens of some of the difficult symptoms it heralds, there is huge value in finding the positives.
Knowledge is power and our goal is to create and support greater awareness around the entire menopause conversation. By understanding the different stages of menopause; and the physical, mental, social, and psychological changes that do occur in each menopause stage, you will feel more positive and be better able to manage your journey and find solutions for your symptoms.
Our own Daliah research into South African women’s experiences and attitudes to menopause shows that menopause still carries stigma and is not yet an openly discussed stage of life for women.
So, how can we help ourselves and one another to have a more positive menopause journey? By creating awareness, by telling our stories, by sharing the journey with our family and friends, at work and socially – by smashing that taboo and challenging the old outdated menopause narrative.
Our own research at Daliah paints a clear picture of women in distress, lonely, anxious, and coping alone with their menopause. The story is the same the world over – women feel invisible as they get older because they are often treated that way – by brands, in advertising campaigns, in society and especially at work. They don’t even feel supported by their doctors or families.
We challenge you to try and reframe the way you view the menopause transition. Instead of seeing menopause as a flag signalling the end of a race, try to see menopause as a moment to do just that; pause. If we approach menopause the same way we do puberty and pregnancy, as a time to learn, grow and evolve, we can build the foundation for a positive menopause journey. Menopause should be a liberating time in our lives, free from periods and stress that comes with raising children. It doesn’t have to be spent feeling ignored, embarrassed and alone. Take the opportunity to reach out, connect and learn from other women on their menopause journeys.
Part of growing menopause awareness is sharing the good things about this time in our lives. Meno-positivity is about reclaiming our lives and feeling empowered to take control ; because once we reach menopause, we have hard earned knowledge and wisdom.
We need to begin to add our voices with confidence to the conversation, not whisper about ‘The Change’, as if it was embarrassing. Only then can we begin to build the support structures we need around us, including at work and in the health profession.
