What Menopause Feels Like | Op-Docs

About half of the world's population will experience menopause, yet it's a period that can be isolating for a woman in their personal and professional life. Menopause marks the end of menstruation, and the changes that come with it are often not discussed openly. In Bronwen Parker-Rhodes's Op-Doc above, women across England share their intimate, complicated and illuminating experiences with menopause. It's a conversation that should happen more often, and without fear.
Read the story here: www.nytimes.com/2020/12/15/op...
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[@jusletursoulglobaby]

you dont know how much I appreciate this. such a simple conversation.... no matriarch around to share their experience. thank you. sincerely.

[@alicetulllyhall1]

I saw this in my feed earlier, but waited until I had a quiet moment, so that I could give myself over to the discussion. I was glad I did too!!

[@fairwitness7473]

Same here. My mom never discussed it before she died 10 years ago and now I'm going thru mine. It's nice to know that I don't have to figure this out alone

[@luzcaicedo9879]

Me too

[@thebigfs2330]

Same. I’m in tears... I needed this.

[@dawnaf6750]

Same here! It's wonderful to know other women's experience, their REAL experience!

[@TheTrueOnyxRose]

Puberty is talked about so much more than menopause. Menopause? *crickets*

[@sherilea01]

I know right? Most women live almost as long wo periods than with.

[@neversayneveragain8797]

Perimenopause is complete torture with moodswings, weight gain, insomnia, memory loss.... !

[@cherish78748]

I remember my mom saying the same thing as the woman who was sitting at the long counter - that after menopause was finished she felt bright and clear again, very firmly centered in herself and her body, and very much free from the fog that had started at puberty. Menopause is often talked about as the end or opposite of puberty if it's talked about at all. But I don't think anyone talks about the return to clarity that it seems to be able to offer, after it's done

[@lindatohara6438]

We are all crazy and making this up over 500 million women lying! 🙏🏼

[@AmaniEats]

I think because there are fewer dangers associated with menopause. Suddenly the young and dumb have the capability to create life, whereas women who reach menopause don’t have such risks.

[@s.gabriel2853]

I’m not going through menopause or even close to the age of it, but I found this really comforting. Especially the last woman to speak. Keep fighting the good fight, ladies!

[@90MysteriumFascinans]

Really? I’m freaking out over the idea of menopause at 35. But yeah, I’m glad someone is broaching the subject either way.

[@funkylilith]

The last lady is Karen Arthur, you can find her on Instagram, her feed is colouful and inspiring.

[@nan639sullivan4]

She was great!

[@girlofanimation]

I'm nowhere near menopause (I have about 3 decades), but I wanted to hear their experiences bc no one really talks about it. It's more taboo than talking about menarche & menstruation in general.

[@Christophertracy09]

@@argiberico It’s mainly genetic. How young your mom went through perimenopause is when you will start. I started at 39, but perimenopause is not menopause, keep that in mind. It’s the years preceding menopause when you start getting all the bad symptoms

[@lynnmarieanderson1744]

As women, we never talk about menopause. It's rough. I'm 50 and I've started missing periods. Then I get one the next month and it's all this heavy bleeding. Uggh!!! I will be glad when I just stop getting them. I never had children however. I do feel some silent grief.

[@flordeliz2668]

Fuerza hermana! 💪

[@TheLoveweaver]

I'm 50 and I went through it already. You will make it! 💪🏼 It is relief afterwards. 😉

[@Myraisins1]

Lynn: Trust me I know. I've been dealing with symptoms for over 15 yrs with no sign of stopping. Regarding grief check out Gateway Women when you get a chance. Cheers!

[@arrowb3408]

The same reaction as your for the heavy and prolong period 4-5 yrs before it stopped. It was linked from my mother side. DO NOT FEEL ANY LOSS WITBOUT HAVING ANY CHILDREN. On the contrary, your life is much more simple and less burden. My landlord lady, 72 yo with primary numeracy and literacy, with 6 middle-aged married daughters. She still needs to cook for them everyday that each daughter comes home every week. I feel great and free and worry free. But I also miss and feel sympathize to my deceased mother had to suffer this necessary torment in her late life.

[@lynnmarieanderson1744]

@@arrowb3408 Thank you!!! I was with the same man for a very long time, we met when I was 23, and we both struggled financially but he is very kind and loving. When I turned 40 though, that was when I was realizing the hard way that you can't just live on love. And I've never had an abortion. Now I'm 50 and we've separated, I'm living back at my parents house and I'm very lucky they're letting me come back, I do pay them some rent money. Me and my ex will always be friends in some way, to a certain degree he does understand why I'm leaving him and he feels bad that he can't really support me. I don't regret him, but I'm trying to figure out a better job or career for myself and eventually I do want to try dating again. Even when I was in my 20s I never wanted to have a baby but if I had the means and a man who was on board with me, I always wanted to adopt a couple of kids, preferably a boy and a girl. My life isn't over yet so I'll see what happens!!! I don't know about dating a man who's divorced and has kids, I don't want to be the stepmom the kids hate because I'm not their real mom!!!!🙁

[@laneyh2121]

To women going through this, it is tough, but so worth it when you come out the other side. I’m 3 years post menopause and love the stability of my mood. I feel so calm and rational, and free.

[@susanstover7178]

I agree! It took me 13 years to get thru menopause from start to finish - had every symptom in the book- NOT an easy transition by far but now I’m on the other side and it’s wonderful!

[@AtheistEve]

@@susanstover7178 Not everyone gets to this “other side”.

[@carawestgate]

Honestly, I can't wait. I feel like I'm not myself for at least half of the month, maybe more. I want to step off of the Rollercoaster.

[@MPR2]

Does the brain fog go away?

[@laneyh2121]

@@MPR2 yes!

[@bodacioustness5054]

"No one knows what they're doing. You might as well live your life at any age." Thanks for that.

[@2degucitas]

I like her, feel what she's saying. I live it.

[@tifftiff9237]

I went through surgical menopause at 23. No one explained what was happening to me. Just that I should be happy to not have a period. I was all alone. It’s like a dark secret.

[@MissKrystalKnight]

"No one knows what they're doing." Exactly!

[@drmimzz309]

I started menopause at 42 and it was the hardest 7 years of my life. I had every symptom mentioned here and then some. I completely changed careers so I could work for myself as I desperately needed the flexibility to cope. I’m 55 now and I’m out the other side. I can so relate to the woman who said it’s like being 11 again...before the hormones. It’s SO good. I’m me again. me, me, me ❤️ I also have zero patience for any nonsense lol. I’m happy, and grateful. It’s like everything inside you clicks into place and you are who you are meant to be. Hang in there my Sisters. Much aroha (love) from New Zealand ❤️❤️

[@Nae00]

When I was a young girl learning about menstruation I remember thinking of how much of a hassle and mess it seemed like, so I saw menopause as a huge relief from that burden. I really couldn’t understand why it was then spoken about in such a negative way or why women were upset when they went through it. It wasn’t until I got older that I saw how much society intertwined a woman’s femininity with youth and fertility and tbh that all still makes as little sense to me as it did when i was a kid 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@BearingMySeoul]

haha!!! I'm with you. Maybe we'll differently when we get there? (But probably not! LOL)

[@RominaJones]

Every woman's experience will be unique to her. Going through menopause currently, so happy and closer to my childhood self now that I'm almost officially out of the breeding pool. There have been some inconveniences but not as severe as these women and some friends have had worse and others better - such a wide range of experience. For me personally, it's been way better than having a monthly period and all the cramps. Once I can count a full year period free, I'm having a party as looked forward to this for many years.

[@jenny152075]

All the women in this video are so beautiful as well as their backgrounds

[@ButtercupMaude]

Agreed. Stunning women, inside and out. There's something so beautiful, almost sacred, about older women.

[@jenny152075]

Sacred. Indeed

[@therealfinnaspring8585]

Yes i noticed how beautiful and classy they are

[@argiberico]

Why are relatively young women having menopause? What has been causing it?

[@cocolade99marmie]

Jenny ...... yes they are all well off by the looks of it and middle-class lefties too!

[@flacadiabla3193]

Ugh, women go through so so much on so many levels of life. The female body alone is a difficult and complicated thing to live with. Maybe centuries of men treating women unfairly is simply because they are scared of something that bleeds every month but doesn't die, "lays" an entire human and not eggs, deals with hormones at an unfathomable rate, when young your boobs hurt, crotch hurts, you pray the bleeding stops one day, and then when it finally does your body finds new ways of torturing you...and so on and so on. All while doing everything. Yeah, ok. If I were male, I'd be scared too.

[@6ixConfessions]

Flaca Diable, well said.

[@edwardspencer9397]

Even men go through all this. Maybe not physically. But mentally for sure. For all that you said, I am sure you wouldn't allow God to give the child bearing and child rearing ability to a male. You would still take that privilege.

[@flacadiabla3193]

@@edwardspencer9397 "Even men go through all of this." Seriously dude? Mentally? As if that isn't yet ANOTHER thing women go through? Nevermind, you made my point. I suggest you never say that to the women in your life. You are not in a females body, therefore you DO NOT go through what women do.

[@6ixConfessions]

@@edwardspencer9397 And for me personally, your god doesn't come into it. And FYI; many women, possibly most of us, if we had the opportunity to share the load, we would. Your comment indicates that you have an unjustly negative view of women in general. I'm sure your mother would thank you for that.

[@edwardspencer9397]

@@6ixConfessions Listen, if you do not believe in God then no point arguing. You have lost anyways. And I have the highest respect for women. And you cannot even come close to my mother with such a comment. I pity your children in fact growing up in a godless world.

[@spacekitten3686]

I'll be 50 this year and have started pre-menopause. My mother died and I have no close female friends any more. This video has helped me immensely. Just feeling like you're not alone brings some comfort.

[@la_baby_khalil7703]

😢

[@theseesawpuppetshow8900]

When I started my periods, it was terrible and I was sick all of the time, bled and hurt for weeks each month. One time I bled for a month straight. Cramps, diarrhea and vomiting every month for days at a time from 13 years to mid 40's. Pain meds and surgery trying to stop the pain. Menopause was a relief to all my suffering and sickness. It came quickly, I got fewer and fewer periods and then it stopped. I had a few nights of night sweating and that was it. I didn't gain weight, no mood swings, no hot flashes (maybe one or two..lololol) and that was it. I am SOOOOOO happy that it is over. I don't have to wear pads or tampons or nothing. I don't have to carry them around or remember to get them at the store. I am FREE. This is so liberating for me. I don't have to worry about pregnancies and things like that. SOOOO happy. It just stopped. I'm on the other side. Happy Happy.

[@laxsneha]

I am so happy to hear a positive menopause. Gives women like me who are about to head towards menopause so much hope that we have so much more to look forward to

[@ameenahsf]

Man you're are my goal woman dreams 😂 I have horrendous periods (currently experiencing one in a fetal position as I type this). I have terrible PMS so I basically feel normal maybe 2 weeks out of a month. My mom has gone through menopause already and says her periods and stuff were exactly like mine. My mom is out here living her best life dangit! I'm like aye menopause where you at tho!

[@iSometimesWriteMusic]

30 year old dude reporting in. What a collection of awesome women. Very enlightening watch, made feel very human even though I am not going through menopause. Love OP DOCS, just a great collection of the human condition.

[@libbyday7782]

O K guy

[@leahcotton5315]

Very insightful - I appreciate your comment!

[@TheRubinator13]

My grandma said that when she went through menopause, that was the first time she actually felt GOOD! She was like me and had extremely heavy periods and was constantly tired, but she said after menopause she finally had energy and finally felt good. I really hope I take after her in that was as well 🥰

[@Sofia-Lala]

Have blood tests done. Maybe you need iron supplements.

[@ilhuicatlamatini]

I feel the same way, and hope similar too

[@ginawhittaker2585]

I’m 47 and I’m in peri menopause and I can’t wait until it’s all over. I feel so moody and my periods have gotten so heavy. I just feel so alone and depressed. Not all the time but a lot. It did make me feel better watching this though because you realize your not alone a lot of woman are going through it. It’s just that no one ever talks about it. I’m glad there’s KZbin though at least I can watch videos like this, thank you ladies!!!

[@ariana_208]

I always thought my mom was exaggerating her hot flashes, but then I’d see her glasses fog up 😳😪

[@faeriesmak]

If I am holding something breakable when I get one I have to put it down. My palms sweat so badly that they are incredibly slippery and I drop things.

[@yogaqueen1527]

How did you make your profile emoji?

[@LaMerryMary]

@@yogaqueen1527 bitmoji

[@re-sister190]

Why would you think she was exaggerating?

[@faeriesmak]

@@re-sister190 I think what the poster was probably trying to say was that she didn't realize how debilitating or intense her Mother's hot flashes were until she noticed the physical proof. It's difficult to determine what something feels like for another person, especially if you have not gone though it yourself.

[@mnmdisney]

I had a hysterectomy due to endometriosis, and it has forced me early into menopause, this conversation is brilliant and so needed.

[@HelenBeeee]

What p^ss#ed me off more than anything about going through menopause was not the physical torture and inconvenience of the event rather the fact that I was expected to carry on like nothing was happening to me like before menopause without the acknowledgement of it in my workplace, in my family, in the shops, on public transport and the absolute fury I felt that noone was noticing that my whole life was being thrown into an abyss by menopause and if I tried to talk about it noone wanted to stick around to hear it. The fact that people in power (usually male) expect women to work during this time pretending that it doesnt exist is sexist madness. I am glad that this is putting the issue forward for young women to consider and I hope there are changes to how society deals with menopause before the young women of today have to deal with it. If we expect women to work into their 70s we have to consider the impact of menopause on women.

[@nunyafawkingbiz]

You're expecting pitty for being a Woman! Sorry but you'll never get that so you should stop creating unnecessary stress because in case you haven't noticed everyone has their own lives and have their own issues to worry about! We can't stop the world to coddle you!

[@naelyneurkopfen9741]

Could you be anymore narcissistic? That's pathetic.

[@therealfinnaspring8585]

@@nunyafawkingbiz i mean i get what she means. There are workplace accommodations for things like ADHD and cancer and all sorts of things but there aren't any work place accomodations for most places for periods and menopause. A woman is expected to do the exact same job no matter what's going and with her body. I personally am for all work places finding ways to be empathetic to their employees and all their struggles and if there is a way for a work place to make working while going through menopause easier for women i would support it.

[@nunyafawkingbiz]

@@therealfinnaspring8585 all I know is I left healthcare because I was so tired of working with women! They are constantly "sick" or having kid issues to where they can't fulfill the job duties! And then creating unnecessary drama! I think if she is going through menopause she needs to take time off work!

[@PsychedelicSmurf]

@@nunyafawkingbiz Thank goodness the world is becoming more aware that women's bodies are not just smaller versions of men's bodies and are fundamentally different systems, and moving away from the very sexist notions you've sadly adopted.

[@yeshua64]

Being a woman is tough 🙁

[@luzcaicedo9879]

Yes it is..

[@Trund27]

Facts.

[@naelyneurkopfen9741]

Being a human is tough.

[@znycelondon5313]

@@naelyneurkopfen9741 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🥰

[@silpae]

​@@naelyneurkopfen9741 Oh shut up. Why can't we just sometimes uplift a specific group of humans, or at least acknowledge their struggles, without CONSTANTLY having to say "all lives matter" ? This is exhausting!!!! Is this video about all humans? Do we need to add at the end the problems some people with penises face? Can we talk about just one group of people sometimes???

[@bellekeboo]

I'm only 19 and still a long way away from menopause, however, it's refreshing to see something made about it. Of course, I knew what it was beforehand, but I hadn't ever heard stories from women and what their experiences were. It's interesting how much we change over the course of our lifetime, and interesting to look at how different and similar my mom, and her mom (my grandma), and I are. We're all at different stages of our life.

[@joselinhernandez7334]

Im 19 too and i have alot of hot flashes but i do have my cycle

[@mariadejucilene7659]

Please get the education you need. You Tube Menopause Barbie Taylor. It is the education ALL women deserve x

[@cocofellas]

I’m 29 and I just started menopause. I skipped 2 periods in a row so that’s how I know.

[@Christophertracy09]

@@cocofellas You may just have irregular periods, honey. I’m going through perimenopause and don’t skip periods yet. They just come closer together, that’s a symptom as well. Other things such as weight loss can make you skip periods. I used to be very underweight and didn’t get a period for 6 years. Once I got healthy it returned and I had my son, so skipping two periods at 29 in no way means you’re going through perimenopause

[@mmps18]

My culture never talks about menopause so I'm so glad this exists!

[@MPR2]

Now I know why my memory has gotten so bad and I feel like I’m losing my vocabulary!!!! 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@trintube68]

I am experiencing that too and it's scary AF.

[@trintube68]

Same, girl... Same. It's torture.

[@goodmeasure777]

@MPR, Yes Ma'am. It's very troubling. I had no idea that was a sign/symptom. Like the ladies were saying, how you have to remember things for your work, ugh. You feel stupid when you can't quite grasp something, that normally shouldn't be a big deal. Honestly, I think that's why I took a computer course, to keep myself challenged.

[@MPR2]

@@goodmeasure777 That's an excellent idea, I've been doing puzzles and brain games and it feels like my memory is coming back! 😅

[@goodthewizard]

It started at 40 for me. I’m so happy that the other women at 35 and over were brave enough to share their experience. My mother and sisters had hysterectomy’s so they don’t experience it. This is so informative for me. Thank you ladies!

[@BratBustersParenting]

I joked about being menopausal all the time. Just had the hot flashes, no mood swings. Now at 60 I’m more comfortable within my own skin than ever before.

[@lipstickprincess1]

Ladies, just because the river stops does NOT make you less of a woman. I was thrilled when the “crimson tide” was over!!!🔥

[@a-zlinguistics5646]

Thank you. It sucks. It's not fair men can still produce children at an old age . While us women go thru all this. At times I feel like committing suicide cuz I can not have more children for my menopause is here. In the year 2020 I only had four periods. 2021 no periods so far.

[@a-zlinguistics5646]

@@cocofellas I'm very sorry. It's not fair for any women. While men get a free ride.

[@juliejay5436]

Awesome!

[@mmraike]

Women who live in cultures that eat a lot of beans, soy or legumes generally do not experience the negative symptoms of menopause.

[@CreativeEricafilms]

Taking notes, taking notes 📝

[@homodeus8713]

Been eating more beans and symptoms have improved

[@mmraike]

@@homodeus8713 That's wonderful! :)

[@Bebedollie]

Yes💜 they produce a natural estrogen. Im talking about soya beans or like soya bean tofu

[@mmraike]

@@tati9867 From what I've learned, I suspect there wouldn't be any problem, and possibly benefits; the estrogen -like compounds in soy can block excessive estrogen at the receptor level. Here's an excellent article: nutritionfacts.org/2020/03/24/the-difference-between-alpha-and-beta-receptors-explain-soys-benefits/

[@katie.holden]

someone get the last woman on this vid a youtube channel. her smile is absolutely infectious and her laugh made me laugh:) not going to lie halfway through the vid i was freaking out. and then she ended everything on such a positive note.

[@more__plz]

I’ve never heard anyone talk about this, I’m so comforted to hear these stories. No one told me how difficult parts of pregnancy, birth and afterbirth would be and it was extremely difficult for me. Women and men need to honestly and openly address and discuss the struggles of life so we can help hold each other up through those experiences. Thank you for this

[@jenniferannison4390]

4:35 This woman nails it. It’s harder than I thought it would be.

[@rawkrXbabee]

I'm 25, my mom's 52 and I could see her going through hot flashes, sweating like crazy in the chilly car. Happy we're talking about this! I know what to expect in my future.

[@6ixConfessions]

Speaking from personal experience, menopause can be cruel. It can last for years & during that period you can feel so cheated & isolated. It's like being punished for some crime that you didn't commit. We have the option of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) if the symptoms become too much to handle but ironically, that can be worse than any symptom, even fatal. And not enough men truly understand or appreciate what we women go through just so that we can give them children. Which is another way in which we have to sacrifice so much. Ladies, we are amazing creatures and so much stronger than we give ourselves credit for. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@a-zlinguistics5646]

Thank you

[@rubberbiscuit99]

I did feel like myself again after menopause. I left my nasty husband and gave myself a fresh start. I feel good about myself for the first time. It's beautiful.

[@SuperFosterMom]

I’m 36 and I never thought about menopause. Just like ovarian cysts, it’s just this thing no one ever tells us. I don’t want children so I’m looking forward to my reproductive life ending. Thank you to these women for sharing such intimate details, it is very needed

[@charlie11111]

I’m 27 and my doctor has said I need to be put through menopause to help endometriosis. This was so informative and honest, it really helped me especially because I have no older female role models to go to. Thank you so so much

[@theenglishtrainer3003]

I don t have my period any longer which is a relief. My menstruation was excrutiating, I couldn.t even breathe without pills so so far I am pleased. My sexual life is better than ever and I.m the same person just no pain anymore.

[@ilhuicatlamatini]

Thank you for sharing, it gives me hope💗

[@theenglishtrainer3003]

@@ilhuicatlamatini My pleasure. Don,t be afraid of getting old, if you are healthy and have peace of mind and purpose in life turns out to be much better than you may think.

[@iceetas]

i too, like the first woman, sometimes wonder if my mom and aunts have even gone through menopause bc no one talks about it and i'm taking a course called anthropology of the life cycle and learning more and more about it and having such a more positive outlook on old age and aging and this was very comforting

[@Myraisins1]

Some people have no symptoms whatsoever. Just no more periods.

[@BearingMySeoul]

My mom and her sisters didn't have any symptoms and my grandma didn't transition until 55 or so? You should ask them. Maybe you won't have any symptoms either! ;)

[@penmax5137]

Started in 2017... Brain fog. Anxiety. Then hot flashes everyday every night. Insomnia. Mood swing. Super dry skin and hair. Extremely dry. No amount of moisture is enough. Women need to talk about this more

[@jasminehurtado7161]

That last lady really made me smile & laugh. I love her attitude. That’s how I try to carry myself and push through in life.

[@TheMcKenzieHaus]

Omg imagine being 35 years old and your body is already closing down the baby machine, devastating

[@jessicasnaplesfl7474]

Menopause must be devastating for women who see themselves as baby machines.

[@harpsailorharp6716gg]

46 no kids by choice and I'm so glad

[@bitameah7745]

I'm pretty certain my body was in full force early menopause by this age. And yes, it would have been devastating. I hope this woman found a way to be a mother.

[@skyepalmer5719]

@@harpsailorharp6716gg Me too, we are a rare breed 😂

[@chilenapromedioRU]

I look forward to menopause, I'm not even 40 and childfree.

[@oranjmusemeyer968]

What a relief to hear this! I thought I was alone!

[@femmefataleracer]

this was good to hear, my Mom and every other older woman that i was close to died when i was younger (early teens) and to hear these stories from these beautiful and open women means a whole lot to me. thank you to the women who were so candid about their journeys and for making this video.

[@esel3774]

It's not just the hot flushes, it's the other things that come with it. Anxiety, lack of focus, memory loss, metabolism slowing, migraines, heart palpitations!

[@leonacollins1785]

I did not know that all these things are a part of menopause until I saw this video. All I remember about my mom going through menopause, is that she cried a lot. Now I am experiencing most of the symptoms that you mentioned. I thought I was losing my mind or in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease! I guess it is good to know that these symptoms are a "normal" part of this time in my life.

[@lindatohara6438]

My list is just keeps growing. Most recently unexplained body aches and pains I curl up and cry. No drugs we must do it naturally ladies.

[@lindatohara6438]

@@leonacollins1785 I understand 100% I am very sick. But peri- menopause was a nightmare. I am here for you ladies

[@ameenahsf]

Not gonna lie.. this has been me my whole life already so I'm not sure whether to be scared to get older or just be like well crap its another Tuesday 😂

[@evitam.7071]

@@ameenahsf 😄😄🥰

[@indmanda]

In my life, I've never known that there are a lot more things women can experience during their menopause. Women are facing huge huge things in their life yet they barely have the nerve to talk it openly. This opens my eyes, thank you for the concern and awareness.

[@joannechludzinski1805]

I think I was 50 when I went through menopause. I had heavy periods back to back and then when I thought it was over they would start again. For years I would have one at random but when they stopped I had hot flashes. We were an office of many women around the same age so when a hot flash was coming we'd say "incoming!! The hot flashes were gone in less than a year. After that it was smooth sailing, no more periods, cramps, or PMS !!

[@sherilea01]

My mom had a hysterectomy at 28 so I was never told about menopause. It snuck up on me at 47 and I just stopped having periods.I was in total shock. I thought I'd be in my late fifties. I'm 50 now and still having side effects.

[@AyyRalphy]

It’s really bad! My mom had hot flashes, numbness, heart palpitations, jello-y legs, nausea, shortness of breath, felt like fainting at times. We took her to the hospital and every test came back normal, even heart and brain mris. She is doing so much better after hormonal therapy.

[@lyricalphoenix8778]

Sheesh that sounds like me. (They said it was low iron) but I may need to check this out too. I'm 33 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@laurenj432]

I’m so scared of aging. These women are amazing, I’m glad they’re speaking out and educating us all❤️

[@laurenj432]

@Loulou Bos Well that’s very wonderful to hear!❤️

[@lindatohara6438]

@Loulou Bos Be scared of me is my point ! LOl 😂

[@tonyapendleton7467]

Beats the alternative

[@homodeus8713]

Live your best life. It goes by quickly so enjoy it.

[@user-kpkxgtj]

@@tonyapendleton7467 that's the part we ignore - the fact that aging is an absolute blessing, not a tragedy 😊

[@tanyathompson2396]

“You’re no longer a fertile woman.” ......that one always hits me hard. I feel like I’m losing my womanhood.

[@OliviaBrynnnn]

Just remember being fertile is NOT what makes you a woman. There’s lots of woman that are infertile and can never have kids and they are just as much of a woman as the woman who can have kids. ❤️❤️ you are strong and powerful and fertility is such a small part of womanhood.

[@tanyathompson2396]

@@OliviaBrynnnn , you’re exactly right. I’ve been finding that out a lot lately about myself. 💞 As you are a powerful and sting woman as well🌹

[@milliemouse6525]

Please Ladies, Don't despair!!! Menopause, not everyone experiences what they are talking about 😃. For me, in it, out it. It came and went. No weight gain, no mood swings, no hot flashes, nada. Sooo please don't be scared - it's totally individual, thank God!

[@garnellwallace5594]

I didn't have any major symptoms either. I've never had a hot flash in my life. I remember bad colds more than the symptoms of menopause because they were that slight. I hope that anyone who is having a hard time can find help because I know it can be hard based on other people's experiences. I knew a woman who used to hallucinate and that had me terrified, but it wasn't my experience.

[@milliemouse6525]

@@garnellwallace5594 so true. I was terrified as I approached the menopause age, especially since my mother was no longer around. It's totally individual and though I didn't need anything, I know there is medical help for those who need it.

[@jordinc5706]

I’m only 20 and just sitting I can get into a heat flash and want to shave my head bc that’s how hot I am it’s snowing where I am now and I sleep fully unclothed with my ac on 65 and I still wake up with sweats I’ve always had a irregular period and I’m on depo now and my manager keeps telling me it could be early menopause does it effect you having kids ?

[@garnellwallace5594]

@@jordinc5706 The first step would be to talk with your doctor. You are very young so it could be something else. Getting the facts is the first step to getting help.

[@jordinc5706]

@@garnellwallace5594 I just made an appointment with a obgyn when I looked it up it says they can check for me I don’t really have a parent to tell me where to go I moved to a diff state at 18 and been on my own I had a legit entire panic attack bc my mind got to racing if I can’t have kids and I really want to have kids

[@gigiatkins5923]

For whatever it’s worth I was in constant pain from endometriosis for YEARS. I was only 39 when I had a full hysterectomy...the pain disappeared overnight and I literally have NO symptoms of menopause...it’s very liberating

[@kayleemegan2759]

The archetype of the crone is so necessary to our healing and betterment as women and society as a whole and yet she’s been completely erased from women’s idea of womanhood.

[@robincrowflies]

Yes!

[@sockmonkey9483]

I kinda like that the crone was erased since she was mostly depicted as sinister, ugly, and sometimes magical due to her advanced knowledge. Even the word crone means ugly. It's a degrading word. If anything we need to find a better word to replace crone, so girls and women align aging with wisdom rather than the "ugliness" of wrinks and grey hair.

[@itchythescratchygirl]

I really love this. It's a gift.

[@sharlenewalker7793]

Absolutely beautiful ! We need more of this openness! Being seen and represented! Much love xx

[@nouveauChic]

This was so beautiful and insightful!!

[@skater4life1031]

Love love loved this- thank you ladies! 🥰

[@rudetuesday]

I've gone through it, but would have appreciated this so much prior. It's been very strange to go through something so momentous with very little information from others who have experienced it. Having a variety of stories from the emotional side of people who've gone through menopause would have changed my life, for sure. I do feel a lot more like I did prior to puberty, but in a different shape. Good luck to everyone who has it ahead of them. I hope you have as much support and care as you need.

[@chidilove8394]

So beautifully put together! We need more conversations like this.

[@flordeliz2668]

Gracias por compartir sus experiencias!

[@amrithaajithkumar824]

I sincerely appreciate this conversation. Just plain old sharing of thoughts and feelings.

[@kayleemegan2759]

Thank you!! This is so appreciated!! Thank you!!

[@susandaniels743]

I needed this! Thank you for making this!

[@emilyharkness9685]

This was a great video, and I want to compliment the art shown throughout!

[@muskansiddikee2171]

I am 18 and I can't even imagine that there will be a day after which I wont get my periods forever.........

[@naelyneurkopfen9741]

It's a wonderful thing.

[@cocofellas]

I’m 29 and already have menopause. Don’t take it for granted.

[@Wildmanmercury]

Love this conversation. 38 going through menopause and it definitely feels like I’m coming out of some weird long trip. I’m happy about it honestly. Life is less complicated.

[@barbryll8596]

I went through menopause at 50. I though yay! That's it! Boy was I in for it! I spent a couple of years thinking I must be going crazy....total brain fog and anxiety was the norm for me. Thank goodness it didn't last, and my family didn't give up on me! My only piece of advice is try and eat well and don't lose faith that your body knows what it's doing. 😁🌺🌹

[@kellykelz4216]

This video has been a hug to my soul! Thank you!!!!!

[@juliettedaze]

Am I the only one that would talk about menopause all the time regardless of others comfort? I would not be able to keep my mouth shut lol. I'm going to go ask my mom how she's doing.

[@dorcaspowellpowell5971]

Thank you! I found myself quickly approaching menopause a few months ago..I feel like a candle flickering on and off i have days wear i feel amazing!!! then other day are filled with brain fog, regret, aches and pains..dry skin (sand paper dry)in places I would have never imagined..but I'm grateful to be alive.

[@retta1960]

Wonderful ladies...thank you for posting this, I needed this like 15 years ago.

[@patsyab]

This is so honest.. thank you. I have to say I can relate so much. I am 43 & sadly too late for children, I was in pre menopause before I was 40 years. Just to hear a broad range of experiences is very helpful to feel I am not on my own in my experience.

[@the_resourceful]

I am in the end game years of menopause and have experienced nearly all of the 38 symptoms, especially since 2018. I find the devastating process an insult to we women but have come to terms with the hormonal changes. This video helps one not feel so alone. It makes me want to cry with a sense of "someone understands" rather than due to wonky hormones. Thanks to all the gals here for sharing. ❤

[@Becky_Cal]

I SO appreciate this conversation and content. At 47, I’m right around the corner from menopause and think I may be I’m peri-menopause. I’ve been doing a lot of research on this. Ladies, if you want to reduce and possibly eliminate menopause impacts, try a plant-based diet (esp. eliminate dairy & animal products-some fish is ok).

[@lyricalphoenix8778]

I've heard people say illuminate animal products. Does that really work tho? And why 🤔

[@alisonoxholm9315]

Brilliant video, this really needs to be talked about and taught to girls in schools because when mine started I was so scared and confused, I'm over mine now and I feel great and know who I am and I'm comfortable with my self, but when no one warns u of what it's like u feel so alone, we definitely need it to be talked about more, its part of life

[@radijanov2103]

I just can not express how thankful I for this conversation. Really rough life situation and it even start many years before the actually menopause. Suddenly I don't understand my own body I living for decades with.

[@nicolemccray8095]

Thank you for sharing this. I had no idea how serious menopause is.

[@karaokelola]

Love this. The struggle is real but this, too, shall pass.

[@HerAeolianHarp]

Excellent report!

[@lizdeutermann7278]

So appreciate this. Menopause is not something we really talk about publicly, or even privately in my case, so to see content about it on multiple platforms over the past few months has been really helpful. Especially like hearing from women who have been through it. Thank you!

[@tinakoernermashood6422]

Empowering. Epic. True feminism. Thank you.

[@nicford548]

What a beautifully empowering, honest and enlightening documentary. Thank you all, ladies! The doctors don’t mention that menopause can last as much as 10 years!

[@glowschannel5012]

I'm 23 and I feel like my mind just exploded. Life is crazy but these woman carry it with so much grace

[@wtpaige]

This was great, thanks NYT!

[@rebeccabriggs2982]

Omg yes, Estrogen being like a weird trip. Yes a very long, very intense trip. It controlled my life for a very long time!

[@lyricalphoenix8778]

How so?

[@luzcaicedo9879]

I'm going through it now.. I stop getting my period when I was 45. They did blood test and sure enough I'm going through it.. I'm making with my Lord helps..

[@river8760]

Excellent piece!

[@helengalt9750]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video. Thank you ladies. 😘

[@kinimediagroup]

This was very instructive. Thank you and grateful for these women for sharing their experience. Love the art as well :)

[@ClassicLitCat]

My dad told me his mom seemed like she was going insane when she went through the change. I was a teenager when he told me this and I wish I would have asked for more details. When I was about my mid-40s I started to feel not like myself. I went from sweet and stoic to emotional and the feelings were coming out loudly, strongly and sometimes irrational. That was from 45-51. Then I entered a new phase that was sweeter, lower energy, more nurturing. I am glad to be done with the storm, but now I have to work harder to care for my body. I eat Whole Food Plant Based Foods, no alcohol and little caffeine and no sugar, salt or oil added. All my aches and pains went away! What a journey.

[@aadya493]

Thank you for this video! Hearing the experiences of these women was truly an education. We, as a society, really need to talk about menopause more.

[@llowe9949]

This video is AMAZING!! So many PERFECT statements from these ladies--- I will defintely be sharing this video with my friends❤

[@jessicaclevenger3116]

When she said eating celery the day before and waking up heavier, I felt that it sucks..

[@MissKrystalKnight]

I love that she quoted Boy George. 💛

[@berthasmith4093]

Thank you for this video!

[@legalmemories]

This was so good and so needed. These women are awesome!

[@chriseverlast5089]

I'm going thru this, and watching this has helped me feel better,

[@sakinahdavis5840]

I need to her these women testimonies.m, I’m 40 and been going through menopause for a year now, it’s been lonely, out of my peers, I’m the only one. After watching this piece I feel a lot less lonely, all those beautiful women inspire me to embrace, thank you 😊🙏🏾

[@paf9533]

Had mine at 42...i cried as i felt so devastated like a wilted flower ...

[@sheafamily3]

I needed this frank conversation. Thank you.

[@jayneeojeda5677]

This is amazing! My family has been relatively open about it, but I’m always excited to hear more experiences!