Breaking the Silence: Celebrating Menopause Awareness, Progress, and Sisterhood on World Menopause Day

“Menopause was once a whispered transition, but today our stories light the way for younger women, showing that knowledge,

community, and compassion can transform this passage into a

celebration of strength and self-discovery.”

Faith Agugu

Menopause awareness has undergone a rapid transformation in recent years, especially in workplaces and communities. This World Menopause Day on the 18th of October presents a heartfelt opportunity to reflect on personal experiences and broader progress.

My Menopause Story

My journey with menopause began at 47, initiated not by nature but by necessity—a medically induced menopause following a hysterectomy. Up to that pivotal moment, I had not had a single conversation about menopause. There was silence surrounding the topic, as if it were a subject to be avoided rather than addressed. Now, more than a decade later, things have changed significantly, offering new hope and understanding for those entering this phase.​

Societal Shifts in Menopause Awareness

Menopause used to be shrouded in stigma, seen as an “invisible” transition. Today, public awareness and openness have grown, thanks in part to campaigns like World Menopause Day. Stories and research are now widely shared in media and workplaces, reducing stigma and building empathy for the physical and emotional impacts of menopause. In Australia, the UK, and globally, women are empowered to speak about their journeys, and resources—such as blogs, articles, and advocacy groups—have flourished to support those navigating midlife changes.​

Progress in the Workplace

In workplaces, menopause is no longer just a “personal issue.” Progressive organisations embrace the topic by:

• Offering educational campaigns and manager training

• Implementing menopause-friendly workplace policies, including flexible working, access to health support, and menopause leave

• Creating physical environments considerate of symptoms (ventilation, rest spaces)

• Encouraging open dialogue and internal support networks

These initiatives increase retention, wellbeing, and appreciation for mature employees—who often hold key roles and valuable institutional knowledge.​

Key Initiatives Driving Change

• World Menopause Day: A global platform for conversation and advocacy

• Menopause Friendly Accreditation: Businesses achieving gold standards in support and communication​

• Workplace Resources: Free guides, toolkits, and sample policies for employers to implement meaningful change​

• Community Support & Education: Campaigns that engage all genders and age groups, emphasising empathy and understanding

How Older Women Can Help Younger Women

• Share authentic stories: By discussing lived experience—including symptoms, treatments, and the emotional journey—older women can normalise the conversation and prepare younger women for what’s ahead.​

• Mentorship and support: Offering guidance at work, practical tips, and reassurance makes all the difference for women approaching menopause.

• Advocate for policy and education: Support efforts to introduce robust menopause education in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings.​

• Celebrate healthy aging: Reframe menopause as a natural part of life with opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and renewed health focus.​

World Menopause Day and Month remind us how much has shifted—and how much more is possible. Whether through community engagement, empathetic workplaces, or open-hearted conversations between generations, older women have a powerful role in guiding, uplifting, and supporting those who will follow.

This journey is no longer silent, and together we can ensure every woman feels prepared, heard, and respected as she steps into the next vibrant phase of her life.