What is the menopause?

The menopause is a natural transition to a new chapter in a woman's life. This process takes place over several years. After menopause, women can no longer bear children. Menopause is characterised by physical and psychological changes. These changes may cause discomfort. However, women can also use this time to take a new direction. They can develop a new relationship with themselves and their bodies.

This brochure contains important suggestions for everyday life during menopause. We explain what can be done about discomforts. For this purpose, we focus especially on women's health and wellbeing. We would also like to encourage readers to talk about this topic openly: menopause is an opportunity for positive and exciting change!

In scientific language, the menopause is also called the 'climacteric'. This word comes from ancient Greek and means 'step ladder'. It does not describe a medical problem, let alone an illness! Even if mentioning the menopause often makes people think of negatives like hot flushes, mood swings, and osteoporosis.

Different cultures also associate positive images and meanings with this natural phenomenon. For example, renewal and recovery, wisdom, leadership and self-confidence. These different experiences can help us look at this topic more comprehensively.
Culture has an influence on how women experience menopause. When people have lived part of their lives elsewhere, it influences this process also. This is especially important when it comes to women looking at their own health, and how they use the health care system in their new country of residence. Not all women have equal access to information.

Some weren't able to look after their own health very well along their life path and tend to experience more health problems. Language barriers and bureaucracy can make access to advice and treatment more difficult.

In general, women would like better information. And not just for themselves, but also for those around them. This applies to the health care system and employment in particular. Women want to be able to talk openly about their experiences with the menopause and any related discomforts. Better knowledge about menopause should lead to women's experiences being recognised, and to better consideration of their specific needs.  Menopause is a natural and important stage in a woman's life.