Breaking the Silence: New Initiative Aims to Empower Women to Take Control of Menopause

Women in Australia struggling with menopause symptoms often feel isolated and stigmatized, with many not feeling comfortable discussing their experiences. However, a new initiative, Taking Control of Menopause, aims to change this narrative by empowering women to break the silence and seek support. Lisa Pope, a Warrimoo resident who was involved in the development of the campaign, emphasizes the importance of open conversations and education about menopause. "We need to talk about menopause more openly and empower ourselves to break the stigma," she said. The initiative comes as new research shows that 82% of women who have experienced menopause symptoms report impacts on quality of life, but nearly half don't feel comfortable talking about it.

Key Takeaways:

• 82% of women who have experienced menopause symptoms report impacts on quality of life, but nearly half don't feel comfortable talking about it.
• New research shows that while eight out of 10 women feel comfortable talking to their doctors (84%) about menopause, only 57% of those who have experienced or are experiencing menopause have sought medical advice.
• The initiative, Taking Control of Menopause, aims to empower women to have conversations they want about their menopause symptoms, providing resources and first-hand stories from women across Australia.
• Dr. Elina Safro, GP and Chair of the Education subcommittee of the Board of Australasian Menopause Society, emphasizes the importance of open communication, including sharing the impact that menopause may be having on one's life.
• Anyone can visit to learn more about menopause and access resources and support.
• The initiative outlines three simple steps for women to take control of their menopause: talk to their doctor, tell them about the impact it's having on their life, and ask them what options are right for them.

Statistics:

• 82% of women who have experienced menopause symptoms report impacts on quality of life.
• 84% of women feel comfortable talking to their doctors about menopause.
• 57% of women who have experienced or are experiencing menopause have sought medical advice.
• 32% of women don't know what to ask their doctors about menopause.

Sources:

• "Women going through menopause shouldn't have to 'suffer in silence'", Damien Madigan, Women going through menopause shouldn't have to 'suffer in silence'.
• Astellas Pharma Australia commissioned the quantitative survey of 1,000 women in Australia aged 40-65 in September 2024.