The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, led by executive director Nalini Singh, is advocating for more open conversations within families regarding menopause. Singh, speaking at the launch of the report “The ‘M’ word: Ending the silence – Fijian women’s perceptions and experiences journey to and during menopause,” emphasized the necessity for families to understand the challenges and changes women face during this significant phase of life.
The report reveals that many women continue to contend with issues such as unemployment, poverty, the demands of unpaid care work, and instability in housing and income, all exacerbated during menopause. Singh voiced her concern over the lack of open dialogue around menopause, stating, “Why do we don’t talk about it? It’s a matter of fact affecting half the population of the country of the world.”
In addition to medical needs such as hormonal therapy, Singh underscored the importance of emotional support and understanding from family members to alleviate the burdens women often experience during this time. “It’s not the end of the world for women who often feel that their contributions are ending,” she remarked, encouraging families to come together and support one another.
The call for open discussions about menopause ties into a broader initiative within Fiji to address women’s health and empowerment, linking to ongoing dialogues about gender equality and mental health. By fostering environments where women feel supported and understood, the hope is to improve overall well-being and create a community where women can thrive.
This continued focus on women’s experiences addresses a critical aspect of gender health and familial support, reinforcing the notion that a collective understanding can empower women through various stages of life.
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