Women largely suffer in silence when it comes to reproductive health. Discussions about this fundamental and far-reaching system of the body tend to happen behind closed doors, in whispers. And despite causing half the population debilitating symptoms that can last for years, open conversation about menopause and has lagged even behind topics like pregnancy, fertility and menstruation.
Menopause is defined as occurring 12 months after the final menstrual cycle, and perimenopause can begin anywhere from three to 10 years prior. “It affects every aspect of women’s mid-life period; their health, sex lives, relationships with family, and how they feel about themselves,” wrote Deborah M. Merrill, professor of sociology at Clark University, in her book, “Mastering Menopause: Women’s Voices on Taking Charge of the Change.
” With that in mind, it should be shocking that the conversation surrounding menopause has been almost nonexistent. But it’s not. Lately, though, the conversation has gotten a bit louder.
A-list celebrities, who stand to lose a lot in youth-obsessed Hollywood, have raised their voices: Halle Berry shouted, “I’m in menopause!” on Capitol Hill this May, to push for U.S. legislation that would fund research and education; Naomi Watts declared Sept.
9 National Hot Flash Day, on behalf of her new pro-aging wellness brand, Stripes Beauty. On “The Today Show” in September, Alanis Morissette wryly described her current phase of life as “this beauti.