We Need to Talk about Menopause uses engaging storytelling and sharp analysis to explore the lived experiences of women going through menopause, breaking the silence around a topic that is often considered taboo. Written by a team of psychologists and anthropologists, it aims to provide support, understanding, and visibility for women navigating this major life transition and to reframe menopause as a time of transformation rather than deficiency.
Through the stories of 60 different women, this book explores the physical and emotional toll of menopause, the impacts it can have on work and personal lives, and how these women navigated relationships, aging, and body image in a world that often stigmatizes this transition. This book shares personal stories about intrusive symptoms, feelings of isolation, and the struggle to talk openly about menopause. It encourages women and their families to start honest conversations, learn from each other, and recognize menopause as a unique and transformative experience
It is valuable reading for those going through the menopause transition, their partners, and families, as well as for medical professionals, to hear the stories that don’t often make it to their consultations. Amplifying these voices fosters a collective understanding of menopause as a natural, multifaceted experience.
The authors have created a dedicated website to complement this book, offering a wealth of resources and support for women navigating menopause. Visit https://carleton.ca/conversations-about-menopause/ to explore additional insights, tools, and guidance.
Table of Contents:
Preface Chapter 1. An introduction to menopause Chapter 2. We don’t talk about it: the stigma of menopause Chapter 3. How do women feel about menopause? Chapter 4. Menopause and body image Chapter 5. Conversations with friends and family Chapter 6. Conversations with doctors Chapter 7. Conversations about menopause at work Chapter 8. Menopause and the media Chapter 9. Keeping the conversations going
About the Author :
Anne Bowker is the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada and a Professor of Developmental Psychology in the Psychology Department.
Janet Mantler is an Associate Professor in the Psychology of Work and Director for the Centre for Initiatives in Education at Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada.
Chizorom Ogbuagu is a Communications Advisor at Canadian Heritage and holds a master’s degree in Anthropology from Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada.
Emma Bider has a PhD in Anthropology and currently works as a climate communications researcher and trainer with the NGO Re.Climate based in Ottawa, Canada.
