Historically menopause hasn't exactly earned a great record. Not much about it has inspired much confidence or been encouraging. Instead, there has been a lack of knowledge and support with a lot of confusion. Unfortunately, all this has done nothing but fuel many old wives' tales, myths and misconceptions about it.
We've just come out of October, the Menopause Awareness month. For one whole month, we had information galore thrown at us from every corner; medical practitioners, therapists, fitness professionals, Coaches, and yes, even businesses. Menopause enjoyed a lot of attention.
But for those of us transitioning into menopause and beyond, menopause is real. We live with the reality of the symptoms: our experiences go beyond a month of campaigning....it is every day. And yes, campaigning is great and brings awareness, especially in our African communities that still have to come out and start talking. They still have to deal with old wives' tales and taboos and start normalising these conversations.
The information out there can do one of many things; it can empower, encourage, educate, or instil fear....a dread about going into menopause. How much information do we need? And yes, there is a need to share stories that can help others who are clueless about what could be going on with them as they transition into menopause.I'm a great advocate for knowledge because knowledge is power. Every woman deserves to be empowered with the right information to empower her to make informed choices about her health. Knowledge is good when used well.
After all, knowledge is power. We should aim to use the knowledge to start changing the narrative about menopause in our community. It is not an end or a loss. We can look at it as the beginning of a new season.
When you know, you gain wisdom and understand that menopause is but a season of life you can manage well. It is a season you can embrace and thrive in. So let's be intentional about getting knowledge, taking ownership and then go on to menopause gracefully.
We can change the narrative.
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