Embracing Menopause: Let’s Talk About It Like Never Before!

Lynne on November 5, 2024

In a refreshingly honest chat, Hollywood star Drew Barrymore, Gayle King, and journalist Nikki Battiste tackled menopause—yup, the big “M” that’s often kept under wraps. As part of CBS Morning’s “Facing Fertility” series, they’re spilling all the details about what it’s really like to experience menopause, sharing the highs, the lows, and even some laughs along the way. Let’s dive into this enlightening (and pretty hilarious) conversation on what women go through during menopause, why we should talk about it more, and how we can all approach it with a bit more understanding.

So, What’s the Deal with Menopause and Perimenopause?

Menopause is that life stage when the body wraps up its baby-making days, usually around age 51. But here’s the twist—before you hit menopause, you get to know its little cousin: perimenopause! This is the fun phase where things get, well, unpredictable. Periods get wonky, hormones go haywire, and symptoms pop up out of nowhere. Drew and Gayle shared how they were completely blindsided by some of the changes, like periods every two weeks and surprise hot flashes.

Drew recounts how her period suddenly doubled up, leaving her thinking, “What’s going on?” Gayle, on the other hand, recalls those infamous hot flashes—the ones that make you feel like you’re roasting from the inside out. As Gayle explains, these flashes aren’t just a quick warm-up; they can turn you into a sweaty mess at the worst times (imagine the red carpet!). Their honesty about these early signs of menopause makes it clear that more women need to hear about perimenopause, so they’re not left wondering if they’re the only ones going through it.

Beyond the Hot Flashes: Let’s Get Real About the Symptoms

Yes, hot flashes are part of it, but there’s a whole menu of menopause symptoms. Enter the infamous dryness (if you know, you know) and mood swings that feel like they belong in a soap opera. These symptoms can be uncomfortable, even embarrassing, but they’re part of the ride, and it’s time we talk about them without whispering.

Dryness, for example, is usually left out of the conversation, even though it affects so many women. As Drew and Gayle pointed out, it’s high time we laugh about it, normalize it, and stop hiding in silence. Gayle even quips that when she told people about her hot flashes, they’d almost whisper back, as if it was something scandalous. It’s just menopause, folks! By sharing these details, they’re helping make menopause less of a “secret club” and more of a reality that we all understand.

To HRT or Not to HRT?

The big question: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)—yay or nay? Some women swear by it, while others, like Drew and Gayle, have decided to go the natural route. For some, HRT is a lifesaver, but it’s all about personal choice. Gayle explains that she wasn’t sold on HRT because her doctor seemed a bit too eager. Drew, meanwhile, just wanted to see how she’d fare without it before making any big moves.

Their takeaway? You don’t have to be a hero if you don’t want to be. Whether you go with HRT or not, it’s your choice, and it’s all about finding what works for you. Plus, as the ladies point out, it’s really important to get good advice from a doctor who actually listens to your needs.

Busting the Menopause Myths

The stereotype of menopause as some sort of “you’re old now” milestone is as outdated as bell-bottoms. When people think of menopause, they think of women over the hill, with their best days behind them. But as Drew and Gayle argue, menopause doesn’t mean you’re old, washed up, or ready to retire to a knitting circle. Nope—women are redefining what it means to be in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. They’re vibrant, confident, and very much still thriving!

Gayle points out that we need to stop associating menopause with being “done.” Just because society has traditionally viewed menopause as the end of a woman’s prime doesn’t mean we have to stick with that narrative. Michelle Obama’s mantra, “No shame in my menopause game,” is all about taking pride in this stage of life. These ladies are proving that menopause is just another chapter—and it can be a pretty fabulous one, too.

Let’s School the Kids

One of the coolest things they brought up? Teaching kids about menopause! Yeah, that’s right—boys and girls. Gayle and Drew agree that talking to children about these changes, especially boys, could lead to a world where menopause isn’t seen as strange or embarrassing. The goal? Helping the next generation grow up with empathy and understanding about what women experience, instead of brushing it off as “icky.”

By educating both girls and boys, they hope to create a more open, accepting society where menopause isn’t a punchline or a secret. Drew and Gayle both say they want to raise kids who are comfortable with these conversations, so no one has to face menopause like it’s some big unknown.

Redefining the Big M

The conversation wraps up with each of the women sharing a single word they associate with menopause. Drew says “reality,” while Gayle chooses “natural.” Their point? Menopause is a normal part of life, not some crisis to be hushed up. For these women, it’s about approaching menopause as a new adventure, one they’re ready to tackle with humor, honesty, and a lot of support.

For far too long, menopause has been the “Voldemort” of women’s health—the thing that shall not be named. But by chatting about it openly and adding a dose of humor, Drew, Gayle, and Nikki are helping make menopause something we can talk about freely. This conversation isn’t just about hot flashes or HRT; it’s about lifting the curtain on a big part of life that every woman faces.

So, here’s to menopause! It’s real, it’s natural, and thanks to people like Drew and Gayle, it’s no longer just a whispered word. They’re here to remind us all that menopause is just another step on the journey—one that’s definitely worth talking about.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the insightful and candid conversation featured on CBS Mornings as part of their “Facing Fertility” series. Special thanks to CBS Mornings, Drew Barrymore, Gayle King, and Nikki Battiste for shedding light on this important topic and encouraging open discussions about menopause.

The $275 Million Step Towards Revolutionizing Midlife Women’s Health

Lynne on May 15, 2024

Just recently, Hollywood Actress Halle Berry has collaborated with a bipartisan group of U.S. senators to introduce this bill which aimed at enhancing menopause and midlife women’s health research, training, and public awareness. The legislation, titled the Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act, proposes a $275 million investment over five years. It includes funding for research, public health promotion, professional training, and establishing Centers of Excellence in Menopause and Mid-Life Women’s Health. Berry, highlighting her personal struggles with menopause misdiagnoses, emphasized the non-political nature of this issue and its significance as a human rights concern. The bill has gained broad support across the political spectrum, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the need for focused attention on women’s health issues that have historically been marginalized.

Here’s a breakdown of its key aspects:

Focus Areas:

  • Research: The Act calls for increased federal funding for research on menopause, including evaluating existing research and identifying gaps in knowledge regarding treatments and their effectiveness.
  • Education and Awareness: It aims to raise awareness about menopause and mid-life health issues through educational initiatives for healthcare professionals and the public.
  • Healthcare Workforce Training: The Act emphasizes the need for better training for healthcare providers on managing menopause and related symptoms.
  • Public Health Promotion: It encourages preventative measures and public health initiatives to address potential health risks associated with menopause.

Overall Goal:

The Act strives to improve the overall experience of menopause for women by:

  • Strengthening research: Leading to the development of more effective treatment options.
  • Enhancing education and awareness: Empowering women to manage their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.
  • Equipping healthcare providers: Ensuring women have access to qualified professionals who can effectively address their menopause-related concerns.
  • Promoting preventative measures: Helping women maintain good health during menopause and beyond.

Current Status (as of May 14, 2024):

The Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act was introduced in December 2023 and is currently under consideration by the U.S. Congress.

The Impact on Women

The Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act has several potential impacts on women, especially those experiencing menopause and related mid-life health concerns. Here’s how it could affect women:

  1. Improved Treatments and Symptom Management:
    • By boosting research funding, the Act would facilitate a deeper understanding of menopause and its symptoms. This could lead to the development of more effective and personalized treatments, helping women manage symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings more effectively.
  2. Increased Awareness and Education:
    • The focus on educational initiatives would help demystify menopause for both the public and healthcare providers. Increased awareness could reduce the stigma and misconceptions surrounding menopause, making it easier for women to seek help and discuss their health openly.
  3. Better Healthcare Experiences:
    • Training healthcare providers specifically about menopause management means that women are more likely to receive informed, empathetic care tailored to their needs. This can improve the overall healthcare experience for women at mid-life, making it more likely that they receive timely and effective interventions.
  4. Enhanced Public Health Measures:
    • Promoting public health initiatives related to lifestyle adjustments and preventative care can help women address and potentially reduce the risks associated with menopause-related health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
  5. Empowerment and Informed Decision-Making:
    • With increased education and resources, women are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health. Understanding their own bodies and the changes occurring during menopause can empower women to advocate for themselves in healthcare settings and in their personal health choices.
  6. Long-Term Health Benefits:
    • Preventative health measures and education can have long-term benefits by encouraging healthier lifestyles and proactive health management. This can lead to a reduction in chronic conditions often exacerbated by menopause, such as diabetes and hypertension.

Overall, if effectively implemented, the Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act could significantly enhance the quality of life for women experiencing menopause, leading to better health outcomes and a more supportive healthcare environment. This could also set a precedent for how menopause and women’s health issues are handled in other regions or countries.

From Hollywood to Capitol Hill: Halle Berry Champions Menopause Awareness

Lynne on May 10, 2024

Washington, D.C. — In a moving address on Capitol Hill, Hollywood actress and women’s rights advocate Halle Berry called for a de-stigmatization of menopause and better healthcare for women experiencing this natural phase of life. Speaking in a room full of supporters and several U.S. senators, Berry shared her personal journey with menopause, emphasizing the broad impact it has on women’s health and advocating for legislative action.

Berry’s presence marked a key moment as she and several legislators unveiled a bill to boost menopause care nationwide. With bipartisan backing visible, she expressed her gratitude towards Senators Patty Murray and Lisa Murkowski for their commitment to advancing women’s health issues.

The Need for a Shift in Menopause Perception

Halle opened her speech by expressing how honored she was to advocate for such a vital cause, one she never anticipated championing in her lifetime. The cause, she noted, is not just a health issue but a human rights issue that transcends political lines.

“Menopause is something that affects all women, yet it’s often seen as an issue only for the old,” Berry remarked. “Society tells us to fade away, but we are far from needing to step back. I am here to say, at 58, I have never been more ready to make a difference.”

She emphasized the extensive impact of menopause, explaining how it reaches beyond just the reproductive system and affects overall health, including mental clarity, thanks to the widespread role of estrogen in the body.

A Story of Overcoming Silence

With a lighthearted recount of a recent doctor’s visit, Berry illustrated the lingering stigma and lack of awareness that surrounds menopause. “I had to be the one to bring it up,” she recounted with an easy chuckle, stressing how vital it is for healthcare providers to be open and well-informed on the topic.

Uniting for a Common Cause

The event also served as a perfect stage for Berry to call for more support for the proposed bill, playfully noting her bright orange suit meant to make her—and the cause—stand out. She expressed hope that more senators would join the cause, emphasizing the need for a united front.

“Today, I’m not just wearing this suit for myself but for all women who suffer in silence,” Berry declared, her voice a powerful echo in the halls of power.

A Rallying Cry for Support

Concluding with a spirited call to action, Berry urged women across the country to make their voices heard by reaching out to their senators. “Let’s ensure the conversation around menopause is loud, clear, and positive,” she urged.

Advocating for Change

Berry’s advocacy marks a significant step towards changing the narrative around menopause, aiming to treat it as a crucial health issue that deserves recognition and action. By sharing her story and rallying support, she hopes to spark a movement that prioritizes menopause care in women’s health policies.

As the bill progresses, Berry and her supporters in the Senate are working to lay down a framework that ensures every woman receives the support and resources she deserves during menopause. With continued effort and advocacy, the outlook for women’s health care looks brighter and more inclusive, thanks to voices like Berry’s leading the charge.

Oprah Highlights the Risks of Her Misdiagnosis, Later Identified as Menopause

Lynne on September 28, 2023

In a candid interview with the Paramount+ show “The Checkup: With Dr. David Agus” Oprah Winfrey sheds light on her personal journey through menopause, revealing a shocking medical experience and sharing her insights on aging and the entertainment industry. The interview provides a platform for Oprah to voice her concerns and thoughts on these significant issues.

Oprah Winfrey also overshared a harrowing experience where a doctor inserted a catheter through her artery into her heart, mistakenly believing she was facing a different medical issue. This incident underscores the urgent need to address and understand the unique experiences and symptoms of menopause, especially in black women. The lack of awareness and understanding in the medical community, as evidenced by the doctor’s response to Oprah’s symptoms, can lead to unnecessary and potentially harmful medical procedures.

@menopausenetwork

Oprah Talks About Menopause with Dr. David Agus

♬ original sound – menopausenetwork

The Importance of Menopause Awareness

The incident highlights a critical gap in the medical community’s understanding of menopause. Oprah’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance of awareness and education about menopause symptoms and treatment. Misdiagnosis and inappropriate medical interventions can have serious health implications, emphasizing the need for improved medical training and public awareness about menopause.

Oprah Winfrey’s candid discussion provides valuable insights into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding menopause and aging. Her personal experiences highlight the need for increased awareness, understanding, and education to ensure appropriate and compassionate care for individuals going through menopause.

Salma Hayek Debunks Menopause Misconceptions: Celebrating Strength at Every Age

Lynne on September 7, 2023

In an episode of Red Table Talk, Salma Hayek took a bold step to debunk the myths and fears surrounding menopause, a topic often shrouded in dread and misinformation. The 54-year-old actress candidly shared her personal journey through menopause with hosts Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith, and Adriene Banfield-Jones, challenging the notion that reaching menopause signifies an “expiration date” for women.

Hayek opened up about her early encounters with menopause symptoms in her 40s, recounting the daunting questionnaire she was handed at her doctor’s office. The form queried about potential symptoms including unexpected weight gain and emotional fluctuations, some of which Hayek identified with. Yet, she noted that the questionnaire missed out on asking about other possible changes, such as breast growth, a phenomenon she personally experienced.

Medical experts weighed in on Hayek’s observations, affirming that menopause indeed manifests differently in every individual. Dr. Soma Mandal, a renowned women’s health expert, emphasized that the process is highly individualized, potentially leading to a variety of breast alterations. While the Mayo Clinic notes a general trend of “loss in breast fullness” during menopause, Dr. Tami Rowen, a specialist in women’s sexual health, suggested that Hayek might have been navigating the perimenopause phase, where hormone levels start to fluctuate, sometimes causing an increase in breast size.

Hayek’s candid discussion on Red Table Talk not only shed light on the physical transformations but also tackled the emotional turmoil many women undergo during this phase. She criticized the societal pressure and the stigma attached to aging, encouraging a more open dialogue about the natural process. Dr. Rowen echoed Hayek’s sentiments, pointing out that the emotional distress often stems from the deep-seated association of femininity and womanhood with fertility.

Taking her advocacy a step further, Hayek emphasized that women remain formidable at any age, deserving love and respect without being confined to traditional roles of nurturing others.

Hayek’s refreshing take on menopause seeks to dismantle the damaging narrative that has long been associated with this natural stage in a woman’s life. Dr. Rowen and Dr. Mandal both underscored the urgent need to shift the perspective on aging and menopause, urging society to discard the outdated view that associates menopause with a decline in femininity or capability.

As Hayek advocates for a more empowered and realistic portrayal of menopausal women, she inspires hope for a future where women can embrace this phase without fear or shame, celebrating it as a continuation of their vibrant and dynamic journey. It’s a call to action for society to reject the notion of an “expiration date” for women, encouraging a narrative where women can, as Hayek puts it, “kick ass at any age.”

Salma Hayek Image attribution: Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Halle Berry’s Candid Take on Aging and Menopause

Lynne on August 31, 2023 

Halle Berry is candidly discussing her experiences with aging and menopause. At 56, she's embracing this phase of her life and encourages other women to do the same.

Berry joins a list of celebrities, including Naomi Watts, Gwyneth Paltrow and Drew Barrymore, in addressing the misconceptions surrounding menopause. She challenges the prevailing notions that suggest life after menopause is less meaningful. She’s debunking the myth that ‘One should look and feel a certain way,’ and for her, that’s not the reality. At 56, she said she feels more herself than ever.

The actress highlighted the positive aspects of this stage in her life. She even states that she has so much to give now and she’s firmly rooted in her identity and what she brings to the table. Even if others disagree, her perspective is valuable, and she firmly believes that she has every right to it.

Halle’s message to everyone is to embrace their current stage in life. She shared her thoughts in an Instagram video, receiving an outpouring of support. One fan remarked, “Being in my 50s has been the best phase of my life!” Another echoed, “Embrace your authentic self. Life is short, so live it on your terms.”

Berry is doing just that. She’s not just sitting back — she’s actively pursuing her passions, including working on a new film and managing her fitness brand, Respin.

She stressed the importance of women staying connected with their bodies in a chat with Women’s Health. “Staying active and making fitness a priority is key. I always try to make it enjoyable,” she said.

Berry’s take-home message? Aging can indeed be a joyous journey.

Halle Berry’s image used as element in the featured image is by: Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Drew Barrymore’s Perimenopausal Episode Caught Live on Air

Lynne on August 24, 2023 

In a recent interview alongside Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore openly mentioned experiencing what she believed was her first hot flash, visibly cooling herself down afterwards.

During a March 27 episode of her talk show, Drew Barrymore had a memorable moment alongside guests Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler.

While on air, Barrymore felt the onset of what she thought was her very first perimenopause hot flash, prompting her to declare, “I am so hot, I think I’m having my first perimenopause hot flashes,” In response to the incident, she removed her blazer.

Jennifer Aniston light-heartedly chimed in, “Oh, I feel so honored (to witness this),” while helping Barrymore adjust her outfit.

Barrymore maintained her poise throughout, turning to her guests and asking, “I’m so sorry, do you feel this? Or perhaps it’s just my excitement.” Gratefully, she said, “Well, I’m so glad I have this moment documented.”

The topic of perimenopause wasn’t new for the actress. She’d previously spoken with Gayle King on CBS Mornings’ Facing Fertility series about recognizing signs of perimenopause when her menstrual cycle changed. Voicing her worries about enduring the symptoms for potentially a decade, Gayle King, aged 68, reassured her that while the stage might not last ten years, some effects might linger.

King offered a candid take on her own experience, detailing how extreme symptoms can sometimes draw concerned reactions from others, referencing an instance on the red carpet.

Highlighting the importance of transparent discussions on menopause, Barrymore voiced her hope to shift perceptions. She insisted that menopause shouldn’t be seen as a sign of aging or declining vitality. Barrymore championed the idea that continued conversation can dispel associated myths, adding that many women in their middle ages remain active and live passionately, debunking age-old misconceptions about menopause.

Such on-air admissions are rare, but Barrymore’s situation is one many can relate to. She stands among the 15 million working U.S. women between the ages of 45 to 60 who may encounter menopausal symptoms.

Despite its prevalence, many women remain silent about their menopause journey. This silence can have broader implications, affecting both their personal well-being and posing challenges in the workplace, impacting the U.S. economy. The Mayo Clinic reports that the economic cost, considering lost work hours and other factors, is around $1.8 billion every year.