World Menopause Day 18th October: Support For A Second Spring
Menopause is a significant transition from a person’s reproductive to a non-reproductive stage. Many will experience it in their 40s or even earlier, and every person’s experience will be unique to them. The impact of this life event is thankfully gaining greater global recognition and understanding, thanks in part to World Menopause Day, observed annually on October 18th, which aims to shed light on this transitional period and emphasize its importance. In this blog, we will delve into the origins of World Menopause Day and discuss why it is crucial to continue raising awareness about menopause.
The IMS officially declared October 18 as World Menopause Day, and it has been observed globally since 2009. The chosen date represents the average age at which women in developed countries experience menopause, which is around 51 years.
The Significance of World Menopause Day:
Menopause often remains shrouded in silence, leading to a lack of understanding and support for women experiencing its various physical and emotional challenges. World Menopause Day has significance for several reasons:
Education and empowerment: Menopause Awareness Day is an opportunity to educate women about the natural hormonal changes occurring in their bodies and empower them with knowledge and feel supported to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being. Our Licensed Menopause Champions do exactly that, day in and day out, around the world!
Breaking the stigma: By openly discussing menopause, we can break the stigma surrounding this life phase. Encouraging conversations about menopause helps to normalize the experiences of women and foster a supportive community, very much needed when menopause is still a taboo topic in many cultures.
Health advocacy: Increasing awareness about menopause highlights the need for better healthcare approaches and resources tailored to menopausal women. World Menopause Day prompts discussions about access to appropriate treatments, symptom management, and mental health support during this time.
Each year, there is a theme for the Day. Previous years have included 2022 Cognition and Mood, 2021 Bone Health, 2012 Understanding Weight Gain In Menopause, 2016 was dedicated to Heart Health Matters and this year the theme is Cardiovascular Disease.
Why is awareness of heart health so important? During menopause, the decline in oestrogen levels can affect the heart and blood vessels. Oestrogen acts as a protective shield for arteries, preventing the buildup of fatty plaque. As a result, menopausal women may be at risk of developing conditions such as weight gain in their midsection, high blood pressure, and raised cholesterol levels, which increase the likelihood of heart disease.
Empathy and support: Menopause Awareness Day promotes empathy and support for women going through this transitional period. It encourages friends, family, workplace colleagues, and healthcare professionals to offer understanding and assistance, fostering a more compassionate environment.
How Can You Support World Menopause Day?
There are several ways that everyone can contribute to Menopause Awareness Day and help raise awareness:
Share information: Use social media platforms, blogs, or personal conversations to share factual information about menopause, its symptoms, and available resources. By spreading accurate knowledge, we can combat myths and misconceptions surrounding menopause.
Organize or participate in events Collaborate with local organizations, healthcare providers, or support groups to organize events such as seminars, workshops, or panel discussions on menopause-related topics. These events can provide valuable information and support for people in your community.
Support menopause research Consider donating to organizations or research institutions dedicated to studying menopause and improving women’s health during this phase. Funding research initiatives can lead to advancements in treatments and support systems for menopausal women. Research into women’s health is very much underfunded and we must take every opportunity to improve that.
Be empathetic and understanding: Show support and empathy to women experiencing menopause by listening, validating their experiences, and offering assistance whenever needed. Every small gesture of understanding can make a significant difference in someone’s journey through menopause.
Become a Menopause Champion or MEG Member!
Show your support and increase your understanding of menopause and how to help by joining Menopause Experts as a member. Be part of our vibrant, worldwide community of women and men involved in the menopause movement at work and at home.
And finally – at Menopause Experts, we want every day to be Menopause Awareness Day, not just October 18th. Let’s join to make conversation about menopause a normal everyday occurrence. We all have a vital role to play in increasing awareness, breaking the stigma, and fostering empathy. Together we can create a more supportive environment for women going through this natural phase. Let’s create opportunities every day to educate, empower, and advocate for better healthcare resources and support systems for menopausal women worldwide.
SPECIAL FREE GIFT FOR YOU
As a thank you for supporting the work and passion of the Menopause Experts Community, we would like to gift you a complimentary copy of our fabulous, content-filled Menopause Life Magazine. Please apply coupon code WMD23 at the checkout to receive your FREE October issue until 31st October 2023, just click here and follow the instructions
