World Menopause Month
World Menopause Month: Raising Awareness and Breaking Stigmas
World Menopause Month is an annual observance dedicated to increasing awareness about menopause, its symptoms, and available support options. It aims to break the silence surrounding this natural biological transition and promote better understanding and care for those experiencing it.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October
- Tagged as: Menopause Awareness Month
- What’s the hashtag?: #MenopauseAwarenessMonth
- When was it founded?: 2009
- Who founded it?: International Menopause Society in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO)
History of World Menopause Month
World Menopause Month was established to address the lack of information and support available for women going through menopause. The initiative aims to remove the stigma associated with this natural phase of life, fostering greater empathy and understanding. Over the years, it has become a pivotal moment for education and advocacy around women’s health, promoting a more supportive environment for all.
Timeline
- 1821: French physician Charles Pierre Louis De Gardanne coins the term “la ménépausie” (menopause)
- 1890s: Ovariin, made from cow ovaries, becomes one of the first commercial treatments for menopause symptoms
- 1930s: Menopause begins to be described as a deficiency disease
- 1942: Ayerst Laboratories starts selling Premarin, a popular estrogen replacement therapy
- 2009: World Menopause Month is established
- 2014: First World Menopause Month campaign launched, focusing on “Prevention of Diseases After Menopause”
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 1-31 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1-31 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1-31 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1-31 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October 1-31 | Monday |
| 2030 | October 1-31 | Tuesday |
Observed Worldwide
World Menopause Month is observed globally, with various organizations, healthcare providers, and communities participating in awareness campaigns, educational events, and support initiatives.
Fun Facts About Menopause
- The average age of menopause in Canada is 51 years old
- Menopause can occur naturally or be induced by medical interventions
- Some cultures celebrate menopause as a positive transition in a woman’s life
- Symptoms and experiences of menopause can vary greatly among individuals
Quiz
- At what age does menopause typically begin?
- How long should a person keep using birth control after menopause if it occurs after age 50?
- What percentage of perimenopausal people experience hot flashes?
(Answers: 1. 51, 2. 12 months, 3. 75%)
FAQs
Q: What is menopause?
A: Menopause is marked by the end of monthly menstruation due to loss of ovarian follicular function, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55.
Q: What are common symptoms of menopause?
A: Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness.
Importance of World Menopause Month
World Menopause Month plays a crucial role in educating the public about menopause, promoting better healthcare services, and supporting those experiencing this transition. It helps break down stigmas, encourages open conversations, and fosters a more inclusive and understanding society.
Related
- Women’s Health Awareness Month
- Osteoporosis Awareness Month
- Heart Health Month
- Mental Health Awareness Month
- Hormone Therapy Awareness Day