Menopause: Stakeholders push for greater awareness, support for women

Stakeholders have called for greater awareness and support for women going through menopause, saying poor understanding of the natural biological transition leaves many women struggling with its physical and emotional effects.

They stressed the need to break the silence surrounding menopause and ensure that women have access to reliable information and appropriate healthcare.

They noted that although the experience varies among women, stigma, misconceptions, and limited access to professional guidance often prevent many from discussing their symptoms or seeking medical attention.

The stakeholders made the call at the Menopause West Africa Experience 2026. The event brought together women, healthcare professionals, policymakers, wellness practitioners, and community stakeholders to advance understanding, care, and support for women navigating menopause and midlife

Speaking at the event, the Menopause West Africa Organizing Committee Chairman, Mr Clifford Okwesi, urged employers, families, and policymakers to create supportive environments where women can discuss menopause without embarrassment or discrimination.

According to him, greater recognition of menopause as an important stage of women’s health would help women manage its symptoms and maintain their quality of life.

“Menopause is an issue that has been treated with silence. We believe it is time for everybody to lend their voice to menopause because it affects a lot of people.

“We want menopause to be discussed in the same way people talk to young people about menstruation. In the same way, women should be informed about menopause and perimenopause. They should not just enter into these stages unprepared,” he said.

Stressing the importance of women in society, Okwesi said, “Because menopause affects women in a way that has not been fully discussed, it is painful when someone is going through something and cannot talk to anybody about it, and is not even prepared for it.”

He also said that plans are underway to meet with policymakers in Nigeria and discuss how the Menopause Action Plan can be adopted and implemented locally.

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“This will help women remain in their careers for longer, have a better quality of life in society and enjoy their families without being misunderstood,” Okwesi said.

The keynote speaker and President of the Association of West African Societies of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prof. Brian Adinma, explained that menopause, which marks the end of a woman’s menstrual periods, can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood changes, among others.

Adinma stressed the need for women to prepare for the transition, adding that menopause is confirmed after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without menstruation, usually between the ages of 45 and 55.

“Menopause is a biological transition that marks the end of reproductive life of a woman.  Menopause deserves knowledge, preparation and care,” Adinma said.

Also speaking, the President of Customs Officers’ Wives Association, Mrs. Kikilomo Adeniyi, said it was important for women to change the narrative about menopause.

Adeniyi, who was represented by the Chairperson, TinCan Island Command, Mrs. Caroline Ifeoluwa, said, “For too long, menopause has been discussed in whispers or endured in silence. Today, we must change that narrative. Menopause is not the end of womanhood; it is a new chapter of strength, wisdom, and renewed purpose.

“Menopause should never be a journey of isolation. Women deserve understanding, proper healthcare, education, and a supportive environment to navigate this natural transition with dignity and confidence,” she said.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the 100 menopause champions, who will sensitise people about menopause.

Speaking on their role, Okwesi said the champions would take menopause awareness to their communities.

“The message is that menopause is not an ailment. Menopause should not be treated as a stigma. We should all come together to ensure that this message spreads far and wide,” he said.