Why Menopause Support Needs to Evolve
As the global conversation on gender equity intensifies, there are still critical aspects of women’s health that remain shrouded in silence. Menopause, a natural phase that every woman will experience, continues to be one of the most overlooked yet impactful transitions in a woman’s life. What is unknown to many is the phase of perimenopause, which is normally 10 years leading up to menopause.
this phase of life.
Inadequate Awareness and Education
One of the most glaring gaps in peri/menopause care is the widespread lack of education about this transition both among the general public and healthcare providers. Many women enter perimenopause, the precursor to menopause—with little to no understanding of what to expect.
Integrating peri/menopause education into medical curricula and offering ongoing professional development are essential steps to empower women and ensure that healthcare professionals can provide informed, empathetic care.
Outdated Healthcare Models and the Need for Personalized Care
Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience. It is a deeply personal journey influenced by an individual’s genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has long been a common approach to managing menopause symptoms, evolving research and safety concerns are prompting healthcare professionals to explore personalized treatment plans. Recent studies emphasize tailoring care to each woman’s unique needs. In India, rising rates of premature menopause, especially among women aged 30–39 and more prevalent in rural areas underscore the need for individualized care that considers genetic, lifestyle, and socio-economic factors. Moving forward, personalized healthcare solutions will be vital to enhancing quality of life during menopause, ensuring every woman receives the treatment that works best for her.
Workplace Challenges and Their Impact on Well-Being
discomfort of menstruation or menopause choose to work through it—often due to stigma or insufficient support. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive workplace policies that recognize menopause as a legitimate health concern. Flexible work hours, wellness programs, and open conversations are essential to creating an environment where menopausal employees
feel understood and valued.
Menopause has long been surrounded by cultural stigma and silence, leaving many women to face this transition in isolation. However, attitudes are slowly changing. Prominent Indian figures have taken bold steps in openly sharing their personal experiences, helping to normalize the conversation. The growing presence of influencers, actors, and healthcare experts on digital platforms, has fueled an upsurge in podcasts, social media discussions, and online communities focused on women’s health. These trends serve as a testament that menopause remains an under spoken topic, even as they demystify the experience and cultivate a supportive network for open, honest dialogue.
Holistic Health Needs in Menopause Care
Peri/menopause is not merely a physical transition but also impacts emotional and mental well- being. A holistic approach to menopause care recognizes the interconnectedness of these aspects. Practices such as mindfulness, yoga, strength training, and balanced nutrition have all shown promise in enhancing quality of life during menopause. In response, the wellness industry in India is increasingly offering menopause-specific supplements, fitness programs, and digital health solutions designed to support women through this transition. Community-based support systems, including online forums and local groups, also play a crucial role in providing solidarity and shared experiences, helping women navigate this life stage with confidence and strength.
Menopause is an inevitable life stage that deserves much more attention, support, and care than it has historically received. By prioritizing education, embracing personalized healthcare, and promoting societal openness alongside workplace support, we can transform menopause from a marginalized topic into an integral aspect of women’s health. Collective action from
medical professionals, employers, policymakers, and communities is essential. Every woman deserves to navigate menopause with dignity, knowledge, and robust support allowing her to embrace this phase of life with confidence and resilience.
The article is authored by Sanjith Shetty. Sanjith Shettyis a peri/menopause advocate and CEO at Mirror Wellness, dedicated to promoting awareness and holistic solutions for midlife women’s health.
