Empowerment and Advocacy in Women's Health

At 38, Megan Liscomb finds herself navigating the complexities of medical menopause after triumphing over stage two breast cancer. Her journey into this new phase of life, much earlier than the average onset of menopause, has been an eye-opener not just for her but for the conversation around women's health.

Understanding Menopause

Megan breaks down the differences between menopause, perimenopause, and medical menopause, shedding light on the nuances of each. With menopause typically marking the end of menstrual cycles after a year without periods, perimenopause as the transitional phase, and medical menopause being induced by treatments such as chemotherapy, it's clear the experience varies widely.

The Immediate Impact

Unlike the gradual decline in estrogen levels associated with natural menopause, medical menopause brought Megan's hormone levels to an abrupt halt. This sudden change escalated her risks for conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease, alongside a host of symptoms ranging from hot flashes to insomnia.

A Cultural Shift

Megan's experience highlights a broader issue: the silence and stigma surrounding menopause. She hopes millennials will lead the way in changing the narrative, drawing inspiration from public figures like Drew Barrymore, who openly shared her menopause experience, sparking a national conversation.

The Healthcare Gap

Despite the challenges, Megan emphasizes the need for better healthcare options for those in perimenopause and menopause. With Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) being a viable but underutilized option due to historical misconceptions, there's a clear demand for both hormonal and nonhormonal treatments to alleviate symptoms.

A Personal Crusade

Working closely with her oncologist, Megan has explored various treatments to manage her symptoms, underscoring the importance of personalized care. The recent FDA approval of a nonhormonal drug for hot flashes represents a step in the right direction, offering hope for more advancements.

Beyond Naturalization

The argument that menopause should be left untreated because it's a natural process fails to acknowledge the severe impact symptoms can have on quality of life. From significant economic losses to increased health risks, the consequences of untreated menopause symptoms are too substantial to ignore.

Looking Forward

Megan's call to action is clear: it's time for a proactive approach to women's health. From strength training to understanding one's body, preparing for menopause can mitigate its impact. Moreover, healthcare providers and researchers must prioritize menopause education and treatment options to support women through this natural but challenging phase.