Despite menopause affecting half the world’s population, there’s a stigma in talking about it.
This can lead to embarrassment, silent suffering and a lack of healthcare support.
It’s time to join the conversation and to help normalise menopause talk.
WE HAVE EVERY
RIGHT TO FEEL
SUPPORTED AND
EMPOWERED
AT THIS TIME.
NO TABOO.
NO SHAME.
– Michelle Bridges
How to get involved
Why we need to talk about menopause
Menopause is a natural transition that all women experience, yet it remains shrouded in silence and stigma. This reluctance to discuss menopause not only results in myths and misunderstandings but also has far-reaching consequences for women's health and quality of life.
When menopause is treated as a taboo subject, it discourages open dialogue and education. Women may feel embarrassed or ashamed, leading them to suffer in silence rather than seek help. And when women do get medical help, they can get the wrong treatments. In fact, some healthcare professionals may not be fully informed about the latest menopause treatments and science, leaving women without the support they need.
By keeping menopause in the shadows, we contribute to a cycle of ignorance and isolation. It's time to break this cycle by bringing menopause into the light, where it can be openly discussed, better understood and appropriately managed. This is not just about supporting women; it's about creating a society that values health, empathy and inclusion for all.
Why we need to talk about menopause
it’s time to break the silence
Join us on World Menopause Day!
Event details coming soon! Register your interest below to receive alerts.REGISTER HERE
Understanding menopause
What everyone needs to know
Menopause generally happens between the ages 45 and 55. The average age of menopause in Australia is 51. Menopause is the point in time when a woman hasn't had a period for 12 consecutive months. The time leading up to menopause is known as perimenopause, when many women start to experience symptoms. This phase can last from one to 10 years.
Symptoms of menopause
Menopause is driven by changes in key hormones, leading to various symptoms, including:
- Hot flushes
- Mood swings
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Reduced libido
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair
- Brain fog
- Dry skin
- Aches and pains
There are ways to manage menopause, as well as menopause treatments. Talk to your doctor and see the section called “how to look after your health”.
Understanding menopause
what everyone should know
How to look after your health
If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, there are some lifestyle changes that can help:
- Getting regular exercise for both physical and mental health
- Eating a healthy diet, and keep intake of caffeine and alcohol low
- Avoiding smoking
- Reduce stress where possible
- Talk to loved ones about what you’re going though
Get informed about menopause by checking out our resources section, and listening to the Thriving in Menopause podcast.
Ask your doctor about menopause treatments, such as menopausal hormone therapy, non-hormonal medicines and cognitive behavioural therapy.
It’s important to take care of your health and to see your doctor regularly as lower oestrogen levels and changes due to ageing can increase your risk of certain conditions, including heart disease, osteoporosis and breast cancer.
Looking after your health
during perimenopause
How to talk about menopause
Starting open conversations about menopause is a crucial step in breaking the stigma and fostering understanding. Whether with your doctor, loved ones, or colleagues, these discussions can ensure you receive the support you need during this time.
With your doctor
- Prepare ahead: Make a list of symptoms, concerns and questions before your appointment to guide the conversation.
- Be direct: Bring up menopause directly if your doctor doesn’t mention it. Start with, "I think I might be experiencing menopause symptoms, and I’d like to discuss it."
- Ask for information: Request up-to-date information on menopause treatments and lifestyle changes. If unsatisfied with the response, consider seeking a second opinion or a women’s health specialist.
With family and friends
- Start small: Share how you’re feeling, whether it's physical symptoms or emotional changes. You might say, "I’ve been experiencing some changes lately that I think are related to menopause, and I’d like to talk about it."
- Educate gently: Share resources like articles or podcasts to help them understand menopause and what it means for you.
- Encourage empathy: Let your loved ones know how they can support you, whether by listening, offering help or being patient during difficult moments.
In the workplace
- Request a private meeting: Arrange a one-on-one meeting with your manager or human resources (where relevant) to discuss your needs, such as flexible hours or menopause leave.
- Focus on facts: Use factual information to explain how menopause may affect your work. For example, "Menopause can bring challenges like fatigue or hot flushes, and having some flexibility in my schedule would help me manage these better."
- Promote awareness: Advocate for policies that support all employees, such as menopause leave or sensitivity training. Talk about menopause with your colleagues to normalise the topic and create a more supportive environment.
By starting these conversations, you can help reduce the stigma surrounding menopause and build a network of understanding and support that makes it easier to navigate for everyone.
How to talk about menopause
with your doctor, workplace and loved ones
Helpful Resources
Finding reliable information and support is crucial when navigating menopause. There is a lot of health misinformation out there. Here are some helpful and trustworthy resources to guide you:
- Articles and guides:
- Visit Prevention Australia for a wide range of articles covering everything from menopause symptoms to treatment options.
- See Jean Hailes Menopause Resources for fact sheets on symptoms, treatments and lifestyle tips.
- If someone you love is experiencing menopause, learn how to support them.
- Podcasts:
- Listen to the Thriving in Menopause podcast for expert advice and real-life stories from women navigating menopause.
- Tune in to HCF Menopause Matters podcast for insights from healthcare professionals on managing menopause.
- Find a doctor:
- The Australian Menopause Society has a list of doctors who have a special interest in women’s health.
These resources are designed to empower you with knowledge, support and community as you navigate menopause. By educating yourself and those around you, you can help reduce the stigma and create a more understanding and supportive environment for all women.
- For more women's health advice:
- Visit HCF's Health Agenda for the latest insights from health experts to keep you informed and help you find the support that's right for you.
Helpful Resources
to empower your health journey
All about our Major sponsor
ABOUT HCF
As Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, protecting Australians since 1932, HCF covers almost 2 million members with health and life insurance, travel, pet, home and car insurance. HCF has won more Canstar Health Insurance Awards than any other insurer in 2024*, including the 2024 Outstanding Value Health Insurance Award, which we've won nine years in a row. On average over the last 10 years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average^.
HCF’s offering gives members the ease and convenience of managing all their insurance needs under one roof, reinforcing the health fund’s commitment to offering a holistic suite of insurance solutions. Its continued focus on delivering more value through high-quality products and services helps members feel confident in what they’re covered for. To learn more about HCF, visit hcf.com.au/about-us
HCF is on a mission to empower women to take charge of their health, supporting them to make more confident and informed decisions. Their Women’s Health Hub connects members with up-to-date health insights in article and video formats, for a strong body and mind. Guided by our network of trusted health partners and experts, the hub explores topics like mental health, endometriosis, fertility and fitness and menopause with the Menopause Matters podcast, so members can find the support that's right for them. Find more at our Women’s Health Hub.
* Winner of the 2024 Outstanding Value Health Insurance Award, Hospital Insurance Award in WA, SA and Qld and Hospital and Extras Insurance Award in Tas, Vic and WA.
^ 89.2% compared to 85.6% across the industry. Calculated based on the average of the past 10 years, sourced from APRA Statistics: Operations of Private Health Insurers Annual Report data 2014–23 and Quarterly private health insurance statistics July 2023–March 2024.
All about our sponsor
Partnership Enquiries at
Interested in becoming a partner?
Contact our partnerships team for more information:
Donna Mcilwaine - Ph: 0449 998 760
Melissa Fernley - Ph: 0416 010 274
Bianca Rampal - Ph: 0400 540 180
All About Prevention Australia
Prevention is Australia’s leading health and wellness authority for women aged 35+. We care about trustworthy and practical health information.
We use trusted global experts in medicine, science and research, to share the best strategies to stay healthier, live longer, and feel better, physically and mentally. We reach women around Australia with our magazine, website, social media, email newsletter, events and podcast.
With thanks to our major sponsor
AND
