Jersey’s Government is encouraging Islanders to get involved in conversations about the menopause, as part of events marking International Women’s Day on Tuesday 8th March.
Minister for Social Security, Deputy Judy Martin, leads on equality, diversity, and inclusion and has established an informal States’ Members group to discuss issues relating to the menopause, following a question asked in the Assembly by Deputy Louise Doublet. Deputy Martin is emphasising the importance of community education, help and advice.
The average age for the menopause begins around 51 and 52 years and can last between 2 and 10 years.
Common symptoms include:
- hot flushes and night sweats
- interrupted sleep patterns,
- mood swings
- anxiety, irritability
- weight gain
- headaches
- hair loss
- bladder problems
- loss of libido
- vaginal dryness
There are a number of self-help measures that women can try, including moderate exercise, following healthy eating patterns, and cutting down on alcohol and caffeine.
In addition, there are many useful online resources, such as Menopause Matters, or The British Menopause Society.
Resources are available for women experiencing the menopause and those who want to understand more from local GP surgeries and the Gynaecology Department at Jersey’s General Hospital.
Deputy Martin said: “Those experiencing the effects of the menopause need to know that there are many sources of support available to them. There are some great initiatives happening in Jersey, in both the public and private sectors.
“Please also talk with friends and family, raise any concerns with your GP, and talk to your employer. This is a really important issue that affects the community as a whole. I don’t want anyone to struggle through the effects of menopause on their own.
“I hope that by encouraging conversations and increasing support and sources of information, we can all help boost the confidence of those experiencing the effects of the menopause. International Women’s Day is all about breaking the bias. In the same way, I want to see conversations breaking the taboo around the menopause.”
