The menopause in different cultures around the world

In Japan, the menopause is associated with years of renewal and regeneration. But in the Western world, this phase of life is often linked to a loss of youth and fertility. Some African cultures view the menopause positively, while others view it negatively.

In the Summer 2023 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, Dr Vikram Talaulikar, who is s specialist in reproductive medicine at University College London Hospital, discusses the age of onset, symptoms and cultural perceptions of the menopause around the world.

“Every menopause experience is unique, influenced by our age, family history, lifestyle and medical history,” says Norma Goldman, founder and director of The Menopause Exchange.

“It's also influenced by how we view this time of life on a much broader level. Our cultural backgrounds and society values may contribute to whether we have an overall negative or positive journey through this time of life.”

Other articles in the Summer 2023 issue of The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter include Benefits of HRT, Brain fog at the menopause, and When the menopause hurts (joint and muscle pain), as well as news, Ask the Experts Q&As and information about Norma Goldman’s webinars, talks and workshops.

The Menopause Exchange, which was established in 1999, is unbiased and independent and isn’t sponsored by any companies or organisations. Our free quarterly newsletter contains articles written by top UK medical experts, including menopause consultants, GPs, specialist menopause nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and complementary practitioners. We also include news, book reviews and our ‘Ask the experts’ page. Each issue of The Menopause Exchange’s free quarterly newsletter is emailed to over 13,000 people, including women, men, healthcare professionals, complementary therapists, workplace managers and journalists.

Menopause webinars: Your readers may be interested in organising a webinar for their family and friends or workplace. For over 24 years, Norma Goldman has been presenting menopause talks and workshops. Her in-depth knowledge has helped thousands of women enjoy a more comfortable menopause. She’s now hosting her own regular webinars via Zoom. 

Norma’s ‘Understanding the menopause’ webinar is suitable for women at or approaching the menopause, women who have had a premature menopause (before age 40) or a hysterectomy, or anyone with an interest in women’s midlife health. Post-menopausal women can attend presentations too. If women join the webinar, they’ll be able to ask questions, receive a factsheet and hear about other women’s experiences. To attend a webinar, arrange one for a group of friends or to find out more information, women should e-mail norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk or call 020 8420 7245.

To join The Menopause Exchange, anyone can sign up for free on our website, http://www.menopause-exchange.co.uk. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter (@MenopauseExch).