Gen X Women Lack Information and Support Around Menopause

At 44, Marni Penning experienced intense mood swings, ranging from chest pressure to uncontrollable weeping and rage. Fearing cognitive decline, she sought a neurologist's help, but it wasn't until her OBGYN visit that she discovered the true cause: perimenopause, the precursor to menopause. "I wasn't told anything," Penning recalls, highlighting a significant gap in women’s health education.

Lack of Information and Support

Penning’s experience reflects a broader issue faced by Gen X women: a lack of information and support around menopause. Unlike the well-discussed topics of periods and pregnancy, the transition to menopause remains shrouded in silence. Penning and her peers feel "left in the dark" about what to expect during this significant life stage.

Insufficient Medical Training

One root of the problem is inadequate medical training. A 2023 survey published in the journal Menopause revealed that only 31.3% of obstetrics and gynecology residency programs include menopause in their curriculum. This lack of training leaves many doctors unprepared to manage menopausal symptoms, contributing to a cycle of misinformation and neglect.

Voices Calling for Change

Prominent voices are calling for change. Actress Halle Berry recently advocated for bipartisan legislation to increase clinical research and de-stigmatize menopause. “Our doctors can't even say the word to us,” Berry said, underscoring the need for better education and resources.

The Impact of Insufficient Research

Dr. Catherine Hansen of Pandia Health and Dr. Sharon Malone of Alloy Women's Health both emphasize the critical need for research and education. The absence of comprehensive studies since a major one concluded in 2002 has left gaps in understanding and treating menopause. “It’s been piecemeal since then,” Malone said, noting the inadequate research efforts focused on perimenopause.

Community Support

Without sufficient medical guidance, many women turn to their peers for support. Anne L. Peterson, who runs a group called Goddess Living, finds solace and information in her women’s circle. "Regularly, the conversation comes up ‘How are you guys doing? I'm getting night sweats. What do you do for night sweats?’” she shares.

The Consequences of Neglect

The lack of research and dialogue around menopause has tangible consequences. Women suffer from unmanaged symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and brain fog, often without realizing they are related to menopause. "They are aware of the fact that they're suffering, they just don't know where to go," Malone explains.

Moving Forward

To address these issues, there is a pressing need for comprehensive menopause education in medical training and more robust research efforts. Normalizing conversations about menopause, much like discussions about periods and pregnancy, is crucial for better women's health outcomes.