Happy International Women’s Day!
In celebration of international Women’s Day with the theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion’, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on how we can create a more inclusive world for all, including women navigating the journey of menopause. At the forefront of this conversation is the need to destigmatise and shed light on menopause, a topic that has often been misunderstood and marginalised in our society.
Not long ago, menopause was shrouded in stigma and met with mockery. It was trivialised in popular culture, often reduced to punchlines in jokes or dismissed as a mere hormonal phase. However, times are changing, and there’s a growing recognition of the significance of menopause in women’s lives.
Today, we’re witnessing a shift in how we perceive and discuss menopause. One of the key pillars in reshaping the narrative around menopause is community and conversation. By sharing our stories openly and honestly, with both insight and humour, we empower ourselves and others to embrace our bodies, reclaim our autonomy, and tap into the power of our femininity. These conversations not only foster self-acceptance but also contribute to transforming societal perceptions of menopause on a global scale.
Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, but it also heralds a new chapter of empowerment and wisdom. Postmenopausal women no longer feel bound by traditional gender roles; instead, they emerge as the wise women, drawing upon their life experiences to guide and influence future generations. They become the custodians of wisdom, enriching the fabric of our communities with their invaluable insights and perspectives.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day and reflect on the theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion’, let us reaffirm our commitment to embracing all facets of womanhood, including the transformative journey of menopause. Let us foster a culture of empathy, support, and understanding, where women feel empowered to navigate this transition with grace and dignity. Together, through dialogue, education, and solidarity, we can create a world where every woman feels seen, heard, and valued, regardless of the stage of life she is in.
In embracing change and celebrating the diversity of women’s experiences, we move one step closer to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Miss Anne Henderson
Anne Henderson is a Consultant Gynaecologist and British Menopause Society Accredited Specialist. She has been a consultant for more than 20 years, and spent 17 years as an NHS Consultant.
Now, as the owner of Gynae Expert Ltd and the Amara Clinic, she is passionate about championing women’s health and menopause in her practice, and by using her voice in media, online and on projects that have a positive impact on women’s physical and mental health.