Menopause, Women’s Health, and the Fight for Our Rights

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Menopause, Women’s Health,?and the Fight for Our Rights

As women, we know that talking about menopause is long overdue. For far too long, the conversation around women’s health—especially menopause—has been swept under the rug, avoided, or downright ignored. But it’s 2024, and the tide is turning. It’s time to talk openly and honestly about menopause, women’s health, and the rights we deserve when it comes to our bodies.

I’m thrilled to see the spotlight finally being put on this critical issue with the upcoming documentary “The M Factor” set to air on PBS on October 17th. The film, championed by journalist and women’s health advocate Tamsen Fadal—who you can find sharing wisdom and resources here and here—is going to be a game-changer in how menopause is perceived and discussed.

Breaking the Silence Around Menopause

For decades, menopause has been treated like a taboo subject—something to be whispered about in the shadows. But let’s be real: it’s a normal part of life for women, and it deserves attention, respect, and open dialogue. The experiences we go through as we age are natural, and they should be treated with the same medical seriousness as any other health issue.

Yet, when it comes to funding for research, clinical trials, or even basic public awareness, menopause and women’s health issues are still severely underrepresented. Consider this: despite women making up over half of the population, much of the research and funding in medical trials is focused on male health issues. Our bodies are different. Our health concerns deserve proper research, attention, and care.

Dr. Sharon Malone , a leading voice in women’s health and menopause, is another powerful advocate. You can follow her on Instagram here for updates on her work and insights into how women’s health is evolving. Her mission, like mine, is to empower women to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their bodies. And that includes understanding what menopause is, what we can do to manage it, and why we must demand better healthcare for it.

The Fight for Women’s Health and Rights

Let’s not sugarcoat it: women’s health and rights are under threat. From lack of access to essential healthcare services to the ongoing fight for reproductive rights, the system is failing women in more ways than one. And menopause is just another example of how women’s health is marginalized. We have to fight for everything, from adequate research to access to care, and that needs to change.

I recently connected with some incredible women who are pushing the needle forward in this space. At a recent Ms. Magazine event, I had the opportunity to meet both Tamsen Fadal and Dr. Sharon Malone, whose book has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to understand menopause on a deeper level. Their voices, along with others like Estrogen Matters (which you can follow here), are amplifying the conversation around menopause, aging, and the rights women need to reclaim when it comes to their health.

The Politics of Women’s Health

Here’s the no-BS truth: health is political, and that includes menopause. If you think your voice doesn’t matter, think again. The choices being made right now about women’s healthcare—from reproductive rights to funding for menopause research—are determined by the politicians we vote into office. We need leaders who understand that women's health isn't some niche issue but a priority that impacts more than half the population.

This is why I’m urging you all to not only take control of your health but to also vote. Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to influence change. We must elect leaders who will prioritize funding for women’s health research and champion policies that support us through every stage of life, including menopause. If you haven’t checked your voter registration status recently, do it. Don’t assume you’re still registered—verify it today. If you’re in a swing state, check your status weekly. If you vote absentee or by mail, commit to voting on day one of early voting. This ensures that you’re off the list of people getting hounded by texts and calls, and it gives you peace of mind knowing your vote is counted early.

Your vote is your voice, and there has never been a more critical time to make it heard. Women’s health, and the rights that come with it, depend on us staying engaged in the political process.

The Power of Community and Shared Stories

This is not a fight we’re in alone. One of the best things about the work I do is being part of a community that lifts each other up. Whether through sharing stories, hosting events, or creating spaces for real talk, community is what drives change.

The upcoming documentary “The M Factor” is going to bring these stories into the mainstream. Women everywhere are going to see themselves reflected in the struggles and triumphs of others going through menopause. This isn’t just about health—it’s about creating a space for honesty, transparency, and, ultimately, empowerment.

I encourage all of you to tune in on October 17th and watch this groundbreaking documentary. Share it with the women in your life, start conversations, and let’s continue to push for change—together.

Let’s Take Action

We have the power to demand better healthcare, more research, and a greater focus on women’s health. But it starts with us. Take charge of your health, ask questions, and be informed. Vote for candidates who support women’s health and reproductive rights.

And most importantly, never let anyone tell you that your health isn’t worth the fight.

We’re all in this together. Let’s keep moving forward.

Resources

• Tamsen Fadal’s How to Menopause
• The M Factor on Instagram
• Follow Dr. Sharon Malone
• Estrogen Matters

Let’s keep pushing for progress.?

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