Redefining the Pause in Every Woman’s Life

On my podcast, we discuss global movements that are underway that are not only redefining menopause but also challenging societal norms about ageing and womanhood.

Menopause has been in the shadows for far too long, like it's some kind of secret society women are reluctantly initiated into. However, the times are changing. We're witnessing a shake-up, transforming menopause from a hush-hush milestone into a celebration of female empowerment.

Badge of Honour

Menopause is no longer a biological pit stop, but a badge of honour. In reality, it represents a phase where women transition from a period of fertility to one of wisdom and continued vitality. Manual therapist and osteopath Katrine Cakuls told me, “Menopause is a transition from a fertile time to time to turn inwards for your needs, looking at what your body, your mind, your soul needs, and where you’re at. So, the number one thing to do is, take time for yourself. When you are on the bus, focusing on yourself instead of reading 20 million things. Take time out to pamper yourself. Allow your body to relax, to let go of those held-up emotions.”

Evolutionary biologists have long pondered the purpose behind menopause, with theories suggesting that it plays a crucial role in the survival and flourishing of human societies. Pioneered by researchers like American anthropologist Kristen Hawkes, the 'Grandmother Hypothesis' suggests that women live long past their childbearing years for a reason. The idea is that grandmothers play a vital role in supporting their families, especially by helping raise their grandkids. They are passing down wisdom, ensuring survival, and contributing to the social and emotional development of their grandchildren. Essentially, grandmas are the secret sauce to human evolution, proving that post-menopausal life is rich, valuable, and downright essential.

Global Movements

The Grandmother Hypothesis is part of a bigger picture about ageing. Getting older is now about embracing the ride and the adventures that come with it. A survey conducted on post-menopausal women in the Boralesgamuwa Medical officer of Health (MOH) area of Colombo revealed that menopause didn't symbolise the end of life but rather the conclusion of one chapter in the journey of ageing. Interestingly, many women reported that menopause ushered in a wave of positive shifts in their lives. With new needs and goals emerging, they felt a renewed sense of purpose to fulfil certain desires and achieve forgotten goals.

A number of movements are taking shape globally. 'Pause for Menopause' is a movement dedicated to hitting the pause button on all the stigma surrounding menopause. Menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson has spearheaded this campaign, which is about changing the narrative from one of loss to one of gain - recognising menopause as a time of liberation, opportunity, and a chance to prioritise self-care without the whispers and sideways glances.

Then there is 'Positive Pause' that takes the empowerment vibe to the next level. Founded by Jo McEwan and Ann Stephens, two headstrong women who decided it was high time to flip the script; Positive Pause focuses on positive education, health, and well-being through menopause and beyond. They offer resources, workshops, and a community that encourages women to embrace this life stage with optimism.

It's about reshaping how society, healthcare, and workplaces treat women riding the menopause wave. “Nip menopause stress in the bud. See what your doctor advises for you, based on your health history. You have options, don’t feel that you have to ‘put up with it’. If your doctor tells you that you need to get on with it, be assertive and ask to see another doctor who has a better understanding of menopause,” advised Ann Stephens, founder and co-director of Positive Pause. 

These movements and the incredible women behind them are painting menopause in a whole new light. They're turning the tide on outdated perceptions and encouraging a society-wide conversation that's long overdue. Far from being sidelined, these women have been, and are, pivotal figures in the familial and social fabric, wielding influence and imparting wisdom. By sharing their stories, they're not only challenging outdated stereotypes but also lighting the path for future generations to embrace menopause with confidence and pride.

Ageism and sexism have long intersected to marginalise older women, but the tide is turning. There's a growing call to reevaluate these narratives, to celebrate ageing as a journey of continued growth and to recognise menopause as a significant milestone within this journey. The future's looking bright as we champion a more open and uplifting conversation about menopause.