Menopause, a natural stage in every woman’s life, remains surrounded by taboos and clichés that often complicate the experience of those going through it. However, it is time to change our outlook on this biological phenomenon and talk about it without shame or stigma. Here’s why it’s essential to break taboos and put an end to preconceived ideas about menopause.
A natural step, but often misunderstood
Menopause is not an illness or a whim of Mother Nature to annoy women. It’s a biological phase completely normal, marked by thedefinitive end of the rules and, more precisely, by thecessation of egg production through the ovaries. To be officially “menopausal”, a woman must have passed 12 consecutive months without menstruation. Usually this happens around 50 years oldbut this may vary. And then, let’s not forget her sidekick: the perimenopausethis transition period which can last several years and where the hormones play hide and seek. Hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia… Ah, what a cocktail! But spoiler alert: all that is not a fatality.
The lack of education around menopause reinforces these taboos. Many women do not know what to expect or how to deal with it, while society, influenced by patriarchal normsstill associates menopause with a loss of femininity or usefulness. It’s time to deconstruct these misconceptions and to put this stage in a positive perspective.
Sweep away the clichés: menopause does not mean the end!
Among the most enduring clichés, the idea that menopause “marks the end of youth or femininity” is particularly harmful. In reality, this transition can be an opportunity to rediscover oneself and approach a new phase of life with serenity.
Menopausal women are also often portrayed as less “desirable” or “active”as they continue to lead rich and fulfilling lives. This stereotypical view contributes to their invisibility in the media, advertising, and even public health discussions. Besides, the clichés don’t stop there…
- Menopause = a torrent of horrible symptoms: It’s true, menopause can be accompanied by inconveniences: hot flashes, fatigue, vaginal dryness, and so on. But this is not inevitable for everyone! In fact, around 20 to 30% of women get through this period without too much trouble. For others, solutions exist (and no, they are not limited to “miracle herbal teas”).
- Sex life is over: this one deserves a laugh. Yes, some women experience changes in their libido or comfort during intercourse, but with good communication and appropriate solutions (lubricants, etc.), nothing is lost! On the contrary, menopause can offer a new freedom.
Talking about menopause: a public health issue
One of the most effective ways to break taboos is to encourage open discussions on menopause. Women must be able to access reliable information about this transition, know about treatment options and benefit from appropriate support.
Menopause is not experienced not the same way for everyone : some get through this period without much difficulty, while others suffer from disabling symptoms. Solutions exist, whether they are hormonal therapies, alternative medicines, or even lifestyle adaptations. The important thing is that every woman can find what suits herwithout judgment.
A new vision to adopt
Fortunately, mentalities are changing. Of the celebrities no longer hesitate to share their experiences to raise awareness among the general public. Brands are also starting to include menopause in their campaigns (bye-bye, invisibility!). THE feminist movements are also increasingly working to normalize the discourse around menopause. Finally, series and films approach the subject with humor and frankness, helping to normalize this passage of life.
By speaking openly about their experience, all these people contribute to change mentalities. Many awareness campaigns emphasize the need to portraying menopausal women in rewarding roles.
What if we stopped seeing menopause as a “problem” or a “loss”? Breaking the taboos around menopause means recognizing that it is a natural and normal stage of life. By sweeping away the clichés and highlighting the diversity of experiences, we enable all women to experience this transition with dignity and confidence. Menopause is not the end, but a new chapter to write.
