Don’t sweat it—Canadian women speak out about menopause

(NC) Even though menopause is a natural stage of life, the stigma surrounding this health transition can further exacerbate burdensome symptoms. It hushes conversations, hinders care-seeking behaviour and makes light of symptoms—sometimes dismissing them altogether.

According to a recent global survey, 58 per cent of Canadians who have or are currently experiencing menopause report negative psychological feelings, including:

• Anxiety – 33 per cent
• Depression – 30 per cent
• Embarrassment – 21 per cent
• Shame – 9 per cent

These feelings reflect the real, daily challenges faced by approximately two million working women across Canada. Unfortunately, the silence and stigma surrounding menopause leave many feeling unprepared and alone.

The good news? More Canadians are educating themselves about menopause and pushing back against outdated attitudes, but there is still a significant knowledge gap. Many women are surprised to learn that symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats are the result of the body’s response to shifting hormone levels, which disrupt the vasomotor system—the network that manages the body’s temperature and circulation.

Hot flashes and night sweats, known as vasomotor symptoms (VMS), are more than just bothersome – they can impact sleep, contribute to brain fog, concentration issues and mood changes. For women with moderate to severe VMS, symptoms can be especially disruptive, with some women experiencing up to 20 hot flashes per day, which can significantly affect their overall quality of life.

If you or someone you know is navigating menopause, you’re not alone—and there are effective treatment options.

Seek out information, talk to your healthcare provider and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Learn more about VMS and what you can do at overheating.ca.