MenopauseTalk

Did you know that many black women experience perimenopause earlier? As early as age 35? Suffering the symptoms for longer and often do not get the necessary medical assistance they need?

The SWAN study (Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation 1994) followed women of different ethnic backgrounds in the US for 25 years and found that black women experienced Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) more severely, more frequently and for longer than their white

counterparts.

It also found that black women had a greater cardiovascular risk, more depression, more psychological symptoms, more metabolic syndrome, diabetes and poorer sleep.

I personally did not have a great experience with perimenopause and conventional medicine. I was dismissed by doctors and almost ended up in a psychiatric ward.

Perimenopause means "around menopause" and refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years. Perimenopause is also called the menopausal transition. Women start perimenopause at different ages.

For black women, perimenopause can start as early as age 35. The symptoms can be more severe. Although for most women perimenopause can last between 4-8 years, for black women the menopause transition can last for up to 14 years.

Perimenopause is most commonly known for the symptom of ‘hot flashes’, which is one of the Vasomotor symptoms (VMS).

VMS commonly called hot flashes or flushes (HFs) and night sweats, are the menopausal symptoms for which women seek treatment during menopause most often. VMS are a form of temperature dysfunction that occurs due to changes in gonadal hormones.

Whilst ‘hot flashes’ are the most well known; perimenopause has over 100 symptoms…

Navigating the Challenges and Finding Balance

Menopause is a significant transition in a woman's life, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. It’s a time when fluctuating hormones can lead to symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, stress, and even depression. In fact, 61% of women report that menopause negatively affects their mental health, adding to feelings of overwhelm and burnout. For many, these changes occur at the height of their careers or while running a business, which can make managing daily responsibilities even more challenging.

Unfortunately, the statistics are sobering—suicide rates peak for women in midlife, coinciding with the menopause transition. Beyond the personal impact, the economic cost of menopause on the workforce is enormous.…

Welcome to the MenopauseTalk Group!

We’re so glad you’re here! This group is a supportive and empowering space to talk about all things menopause. Whether you're just starting or well into your journey, this is a place to connect, share, and learn together.

What’s it about?

We’re here for open, honest conversations about menopause—from symptoms like hot flashes to managing the emotional and physical changes. Nothing is off-limits!

Benefits of joining:

• Support: A community that understands and offers real, judgment-free advice.

• Expert Tips: Access to helpful resources and guidance on managing menopause.

• Empowerment: Together, we’ll embrace this phase and find ways to thrive!

Jump into the conversations, and let’s support one another through this journey!