Salote’s journey through menopause offers a unique perspective on a phase of life that often remains shrouded in stigma and confusion. At 40, Salote faced the onset of menopause, a milestone that many women navigate with a range of challenging symptoms. While her sister’s experiences were filled with intense mood swings and physical discomfort, Salote’s transition was characterized by surprising calmness. “I sailed through it. I didn’t have all these complications,” she recalls, highlighting a stark contrast to the narratives commonly shared about menopause.
During this time, Salote was managing multiple responsibilities, from her full-time job to caring for her three children and aging parents. “By the time I got to that phase in my life, it was kind of just another thing to carry,” she explains, suggesting that her packed schedule may have masked her menopausal symptoms. However, after nearly five years of what she believed were her symptoms fading, they returned unexpectedly—serving as a reminder that menopause is not always a linear journey.
Unbeknownst to her, the early onset of menopause at age 40 came with significant health risks, including a heightened likelihood of suffering a stroke. At 48, Salote collapsed in her yard, prompting a deep reflection on her health and the lack of guidance she had received. “I realized later that early menopause increases your risk of stroke, but no one told me that— not the doctors or the nurses,” she shared, underscoring a crucial gap in women’s health education.
As she faced the aftermath of her stroke, which left her struggling to walk properly for two years, Salote felt the weight of her experience more acutely. The emotional toll of feeling different and slower was compounded by fears about navigating life without adequate support systems. “How do women survive this when they don’t have anyone to help them?” she pondered.
Over a decade removed from her stroke, Salote now advocates for awareness about early menopause and its potential implications, encouraging younger women not to dismiss their experiences, however minor they may seem. “I tell them, don’t ignore the signs. Even if you think you’re too young, don’t wait for something big to happen before you take it seriously,” she urges.
This narrative resonates with broader themes emerging from the experiences of women in Fiji and across the globe. Similar discussions emphasize the importance of breaking the silence surrounding menopause, advocating for open conversations that empower women to share their experiences and seek the support they need.
In light of the common struggles women face during this natural transition, there is a growing hope that increased awareness and education can pave the way for better health resources and support systems. Organizations, including the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, are championing these critical conversations, allowing women like Salote to share their stories and help cultivate a more informed and supportive community around menopause and women’s health.
Salote’s story serves not just as a personal account but as a beacon of solidarity for women navigating similar paths, encouraging them to prioritize their health, seek necessary medical guidance, and share their experiences openly within their communities.
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