Wies: “Gender reveal party? I’m throwing a menopause party!”

That's a bit far out, I thought, when I read about menopause parties in a HuffPost article. But it's true, menopause celebrations seem to be gaining popularity. Experts in the article say that “more and more people are shedding some of the stigma and shame around ageing and being in menopause. This generation is saying, ‘No, I am worthy, and I’m celebrating this,’ much like a rite of passage. The idea that menopause is a negative milestone couldn’t be more wrong – 30% to 40% of most people’s lives happen after menopause.”

Menopause is the time when you stop having menstrual periods entirely. Once you've stopped menstruating for 12 consecutive months, you can be sure that you've passed through menopause. Time to throw a party! It doesn't have to be on the exact day or month, just as long as you celebrate it. “This is the beginning of a whole new chapter that can really bring you greater resilience, confidence and wisdom,” psychotherapist Helen Bennett explains in the article.

Sharing tips and information

Wisdom and resilience, really? This is just crazy to me. Menopause sucks! It's definitely not a cause for celebration. But, according to the article, there’s also the other side of menopause parties, which is where people come together for support and information and to share ideas on hormone replacement therapy or ideas on how to manage reasonable adjustments at work, or just to share how miserable they’re finding things.  

Bennett adds: “There’s also a sense of ‘hey, let’s have fun and celebrate and make a bit of light of this.’ Menopause has always been a hush-hush topic, but that is changing.” 

I agree with Bennet on this. I can just hear myself saying, “Hey honey, I'm going out tonight. Nothing big, just popping round to Juliette's menopause party.” Wouldn't that be amazing? Of course, everyone would know that Juliette is over the hill, on the shelf. Hang on, screw over the hill! We need to reframe menopause as a period of new possibilities.  

Coming to my menopause party?

Menopause parties mark the start of a new section of life – much like a divorce party, gender reveal party or baby shower. OK, I guess I can get used to that. And I like parties, no matter the occasion. So be sure to invite me to your menopause celebration. Let’s get down and party. Turn up the bass! 

P.S. There are many websites teeming with menopause party ideas.  

Alleviate your menopausal symptoms

Each woman's body is different, and when it comes to the menopausal transition, no woman's journey is the same. This means there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Discover how lifestyle, nutrition, supplements and medical treatments can support your health at this stage of life. Find out what you can do.

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