Menopause: A crucial phase of womanhood

A LOT is being said or written about peri menopause, pre menopause, and menopause these days. Suddenly, the environment has burst with countless theories on this topic. The awareness has spread and sprouted more questions than answers.
This discussion is relevant as it impacts the families in societies. Women are the pillars on which family structures depend. If a woman in a household goes through a crisis, the entire household turns topsy-turvy. Hence, it is a must that women are taken well care of during this phase.
Symptoms vary, but the most challenging one is that of loneliness. Women are generally considered beacons of supportive environments, but they often suffer from pangs of emptiness.
This feeling intensifies during the intense process of hormonal alterations. It’s good that symptoms are being talked about and matched with the experiences of other women in similar situations.
It is a great step forward to admit that the menopausal phase is real and women deserve support in their middle lives. Going through reproductive years and then stepping into an unknown territory creates confusion. The mind and the body undergo a chaotic, muddled transition.
There also arrives the disconnect with everything familiar. It’s like a leaf swaying in the strong winds, not knowing where it will land.
In the past, when women went through significant emotional and physical changes, they were often hastily labelled as “old” or simply perceived as approaching old age.
This tendency to reduce complex experiences to simplistic terms is something society has perpetuated over the years.
Although we have made strides toward greater understanding and empathy, those old labels still linger, casting a shadow over women’s experiences during transitions in life, such as menopause or other significant changes.
It’s important to recognise that for many women, this period can bring about feelings of nostalgia and loss. They reflect on their past selves – how they felt, what they accomplished, and how they navigated the world. At the same time, there can be anxiety about the future and what lies ahead.
Women may grapple with questions about their identity, their value and how they fit into a world that tends to focus on youth and appearance. This is a natural process, a part of life’s ebb and flow, yet it can feel isolating.
Families play a crucial role here. Instead of allowing fear and misunderstanding to prevail, it’s essential for loved ones to engage in open conversations, showing empathy for what women are experiencing.
Notinging their feelings can help create a supportive environment where they feel understood rather than dismissed. Families should take time to listen actively, allowing women the space to express their thoughts and concerns without judgement.
It’s not merely about adjusting to change, but celebrating the growth and wisdom that appear with these transformative moments.
There is another interesting facet to the picture. Some women sitting on the other side of the transition become prone to judging ruthlessly. They become dismissive of this chatter about menopause and refuse to share their experiences and wisdom with the younger generation.
Some even go to the extent of saying that younger women are lying to save themselves from the burden of nurturing their families.
The lack of matriarchal support further derails the discussions, leading to aggravated suffering for women in transitional phases.
There are too many factors at play in this crucial phase of womanhood. The pendulum of narrative for women has shifted from being nurturers to becoming fierce advocates for their evolutionary processes. The demand for providing auxiliary
environment during the menopausal stages is increasingly amplified, leading to education and awareness.
Well, things have improved. It is not about ageing. Women do mull and brood over the loss of what they were and the fear of what they are becoming. But we cannot negate the force of nature and cease the transition.
This is where families must assimilate their apprehensions and be cognizant of the needs of the women in their lives during this difficult phase of acceptance.
Accepting that these transitions are part of life can foster a deeper connection, making it clear that every stage of life holds its value and beauty. Ultimately, this journey of acceptance is best travelled together.