Transforming the Menopause Dialogue: How Health Professionals Are Leading the Way

Have you heard of the “We Do Not Care Club”? It’s a unique space created by Melani Sanders for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. Melani’s message is all about shedding the emotional burdens and openly discussing the challenges women face during this life stage.

In a recent video, she expressed, “I just shared my story, and it resonated with women everywhere. Using humor and honesty, I created a community where women can finally release their worries.” This approach highlights the pressing need for open dialogue about menopause and its effects.

Allison Koonce, who leads community outreach with LMH Health, recognized this need. “After getting great information about puberty and parenting, I felt lost when it came to perimenopause,” she shared. Others must feel this gap, too—so LMH Health teamed up with the Lawrence Public Library to host “What’s the Scoop on Menopause?” This panel allowed experts to discuss menopause in detail and answer questions.

Kelly Jimenez, a nurse practitioner, emphasized that while resources are plentiful for other life stages, menopause often gets overlooked. “Women just don’t have as much insight into this transition,” she noted.

Dr. Pamela Huerter, a primary care physician, added that discussions around menopause can be sensitive. “Everyone knows about hot flashes, but the emotional effects, especially related to body changes, can be tougher to address,” she said.

What is Menopause?

Menopause officially starts after a woman has not had her period for 12 consecutive months. Before that, the perimenopausal phase begins, bringing various symptoms like:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Mood swings or irritability
• Hot flashes
• Irregular periods
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness

If you’re on hormonal birth control, these symptoms might not show as clearly. Jimenez reassures, “We’re here to discuss your concerns and explore treatment options. Testing hormone levels can help clarify your status.”

Managing Symptoms

Many women find they don’t need help with symptoms, but for those who do, plenty of treatment options exist. This ranges from hormone therapy to lifestyle changes. Dr. Michele Bennett highlighted, “Everyone’s experience is unique; approach must be tailored.”

Emotional symptoms can also arise due to hormonal shifts. Melissa Hoffman, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, noted, “This phase impacts our mental health significantly. If sleep problems occur, we might look at cognitive behavioral therapy or medication as options.” She reminds us that both therapy and medication can be helpful.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle matters, especially since past strategies might not work as effectively now. For instance, a Mediterranean diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains—is often recommended. However, moderation with alcohol is vital; it can worsen hot flashes and sleep disturbances.

Seeking Immediate Relief

Social media can be a source of tips for managing menopausal symptoms. But it’s essential to approach these suggestions cautiously. Jan Morey, an advanced practice registered nurse, warns against blindly following trends online. “Many come in seeking tests based on advice from influencers—feedback that may not suit their needs,” she explained.

When uncertain about symptoms or body changes, it’s crucial to talk with a healthcare provider. “Your voice should matter in these discussions,” Morey urged. “We aim to provide safe, effective guidance as you navigate this phase of your life.”

With more awareness and understanding, women can better embrace this transition and prioritize their health. For more reliable information, check the Women’s Health Resource Center at the [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/womens/@health/menopause/index.html).

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