"Wait, menopause? Isn't that something only older women go through?"
If you're between the ages of 16 and 35, you might have asked yourself this question at some point. Menopause is often perceived as a milestone that signifies aging in women. But is that all there is to it? Let's delve into the world of menopause, its implications, and how we, as sons, daughters, and young adults, can better understand and support the important women in our lives.
Understanding Menopause: More Than Just a Sign of Aging
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years, typically occurring in their late 40s or early 50s. While it's true that menopause is associated with aging, it's essential to recognise that it's a natural and inevitable part of every woman's life, and not a negative event to be dreaded or stigmatised.
Menopause brings about various physical, emotional, and psychological changes, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. However, it's important to remember that menopause isn't synonymous with declining health or a loss of vitality. In fact, many women continue to lead active, fulfilling lives well into their postmenopausal years.
Menopause in Singapore
In Singapore, the average age of menopause is around 49 years old, similar to the global average. As a society with strong traditional and cultural influences, Singaporean women may experience unique challenges in managing menopause, such as societal expectations and misconceptions about this stage of life. This makes it even more important for younger generations to educate themselves and empathise with the experiences of their mothers, aunts, or grandmothers.
Supporting the Women in Our Lives
So, how can we support the women in our lives as they navigate menopause and the changes that come with it? Here are some ways you can make a difference:
Educate yourself: Learn about the symptoms, treatments, and lifestyle changes associated with menopause. Understand that each woman's experience is unique and that menopause is not an illness, but a natural life transition.
Be empathetic: Recognise that menopausal symptoms can be challenging to manage. Offer your understanding, patience, and emotional support to the women in your life as they go through this process.
Encourage open conversations: Break the taboo around discussing menopause by engaging in open and honest conversations with the women in your life. This can help create a supportive environment and encourage them to share their experiences and seek help if needed.
Promote a healthy lifestyle: Encourage and participate in activities that promote physical, mental, and social well-being, such as exercising together, trying new hobbies, or attending community events. These activities can help alleviate menopause symptoms and contribute to a higher quality of life.
Let's Change the Conversation
As younger generations in Singapore, we have the power to change the narrative around menopause and aging. By educating ourselves, empathising with the experiences of our mothers, aunts, and grandmothers, and supporting them through this life stage, we can break the stigma surrounding menopause and redefine what it means to age gracefully.
So, let's start the conversation, Singapore! Are you ready to change the way we perceive and talk about menopause and aging?
Important Notes:
This article is meant purely for informational purposes and should not be relied upon as medical advice. Always consult a medical professional for specific advice on your health.
This article has not been reviewed by any medical professionals or legal bodies.
References:
Avis, N. E., & McKinlay, S. M. (1995). A Longitudinal Analysis of Women's Attitudes Toward the Menopause: Results from the Massachusetts Women's Health Study. Maturitas, 21(1), 65-74. https://doi.org/10.1016/0378-5122(94)00868-M
Harlow, S. D., Gass, M., Hall, J. E., Lobo, R., Maki, P., Rebar, R. W., ... & de Villiers, T. J. (2012). Executive summary of the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop + 10: Addressing the Unfinished Agenda of Staging Reproductive Aging. Menopause, 19(4), 387-395. https://doi.org/10.1097/gme.0b013e31824d8f40
Ministry of Health Singapore. (2018). Health Facts: Principal Causes of Death. Retrieved from https://www.moh.gov.sg/resources-statistics/singapore-health-facts/principal-causes-of-death
Nappi, R. E., & Lachowsky, M. (2009). Menopause and Sexuality: Prevalence of Symptoms and Impact on Quality of Life. Maturitas, 63(2), 138-141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2009.03.021