Project for the Elderly has called for public awareness on menopause to help women experiencing the condition overcome stigma, fear and misconceptions in their communities.
The organisation made the call in Mangochi District during an awareness activity held to commemorate Menopause Awareness Day on Sunday, which included a big walk aimed at sensitising the public on menopause and encouraging open discussions about the condition.
Project for the Elderly Director, Emmie Maferano, said menopause remains a topic that many people are afraid to discuss leaving women to suffer in silence.
Maferano observed that some women experience anxiety and fear during menopause, while others face stigma and discrimination because of a lack of understanding about the condition.
She said some community members wrongly associate the physical changes women experience during menopause with witchcraft a misconception that can cause unnecessary suffering.
She explained that women going through menopause may experience joint and hip pain, hot flashes and other physical discomforts which can lead to women feeling neglected, especially when their families and communities fail to understand what they are experiencing.
She has therefore called on government to introduce menopause education in schools, just as learners are taught about puberty, saying this would help young people understand that menopause is a natural stage in life of a woman.
She also urged health facilities to establish special counselling services where women can receive guidance and support to help them cope with the physical and emotional challenges associated with menopause.
Gynecologist at Mangochi District Hospital, Nelson Mkwezalamba, concurred with Maferano saying there is indeed a knowledge gap on menopause.
