Doctors are being urged to normalize discussions around menopause during hospital admissions for childbirth, according to a group of Indo-Fijian market vendors. Many women from rural areas express a lack of information about menopause, often viewing its symptoms as mystical or a result of witchcraft due to cultural stigmas surrounding such conversations.
One vendor, who spoke under the pseudonym Wati, shared her personal experience with menopause, stating that she only realized the nature of her symptoms at the age of 47. She highlighted the importance of healthcare providers discussing menopause openly, similar to how they address issues like HIV/AIDS. “Imagine the shame and fear we women go through, thinking ‘it is only me’ going through all of this,” she lamented.
This call for dialogue mirrors a growing movement in Fiji, where the stigma around menopause remains prevalent, leading many women to suffer in silence. Similar articles have noted that misinformation about menopause can lead women to seek unhelpful remedies, rather than receiving proper medical attention. This gap in understanding is further emphasized by women who have reported experiencing mood swings, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances—issues they often associate with spiritual or familial curses rather than a natural life transition.
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to respect the cultural sensitivities surrounding discussions about menopause, while also providing essential information to dispel myths and promote awareness. Initiatives by organizations like the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement are working to elevate the conversation about menopause, emphasizing the need for supportive community dialog and family involvement to ease the challenges women face.
At 69, Wati now feels better informed about menopause, stating her intent to educate her daughters about this life phase, suggesting a shift toward a more supportive environment for future generations. Her journey underscores the importance of fostering open conversations about women’s health, recognizing menopause as a natural part of life rather than a taboo subject.
Overall, the hope is that by breaking the silence surrounding menopause, communities in Fiji can create a more informed and compassionate approach to women’s health, ultimately improving the quality of life for those navigating this life stage.
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