Breaking the Barriers: Unveiling Menopause
Struggles in Discussion: Many Females Find It Challenging to Address Menopause - Women often struggle to discuss menopause openly
Menopause, a transitional phase for millions of women worldwide, continues to be a topic shrouded in silence. Despite its prevalence, the taboo surrounding it persists due to societal discomfort, lack of open dialogue, and misinterpretation of symptoms.
Take Sybille, a 47-year-old woman in Germany, for instance. She struggles with hot flashes that have been part of her life for years but only found relief with hormone patches. Sybille is one of the millions battling menopause symptoms, yet the topic remains difficult to discuss.
"I still hear from many women that they find it hard to talk about," comments Mandy Mangler, chief physician at two Vivantes Auguste-Viktoria clinics in Berlin. The taboo is deeply rooted, stemming from aging and the closing of doors, according to Mangler. However, she notes a slow change in society, with menopause becoming more prevalent in the media.
Menopause typically begins around age 50. Unfortunately, diagnosis and treatment can be a challenge. Sybille's initial doctor failed to provide her with any help, only after being referred to Strowitzki was she able to receive the appropriate care.
Not only is society reticent to discuss menopause, but aging is often viewed critically. Katrin Schaudig, president of the German Menopause Society, highlights that the cessation of menstrual bleeding signifies the end of fertility and a reminder of mortality. This, combined with traditional attitudes of "don't make a fuss," leads to avoidance of discussing menopause-related issues.
However, there is a shift happening. Women are becoming more confident, embracing their experiences, and advocating for change. Schaudig suggests that this is part of a feminist consciousness. The goal is to normalize discussions around menopause, erase stigma, and promote understanding.
Initiatives such as "We are nine million" aim to de-tabooize menopause. This movement acknowledges the nine million women currently experiencing menopause in Germany. "I don't think that these menopausal women should be handled with kid gloves, but they must be taken seriously and acknowledged," states the initiative.
Companies are also recognizing the importance of addressing menopause in the workplace. Strowitzki notes that there are working groups at universities, focused on designing workplaces to accommodate women during this period. This includes providing breaks to help women remain productive while dealing with menopausal symptoms.
Plant-based products can also offer relief during menopause, as well as healthy eating, exercise, and Kneipp applications, particularly for managing hot flashes. However, in some cases, hormone therapy may be necessary. The benefits and risks must always be weighed, as long-term hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer, according to the German Cancer Society.
Despite the challenges, Sybille remains hopeful. Fan herself and take a deep breath, she shares her experiences with friends without fear. "When you bring up the topic, suddenly four people chime in with 'Me too' and 'I'm taking this'. And suddenly it's a big topic."
Menopause brings not only challenges but also positive aspects, such as the freedom from menstrual discomfort and the opportunity to express one's sexuality as desired. Dr. Mangler encourages us to accept the natural female cycle, regardless of the life stage, and to recognize women's potential and strength during this phase.
- The community policy could include initiatives like "We are nine million," aiming to remove the taboo around menopause, fostering open conversations and eradicating stigma associated with the transition.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, vocational training programs could be beneficial for women navigating menopause, equipping them with strategies for managing symptoms and maintaining productivity in the workplace, such as understanding plant-based products and exercise for relief. Additionally, womens-health clinics could provide vocational training on women's health issues, including menopause, to better address the challenges faced by women in this phase of life.
