Menopause retreat helps new generation of women find relief and cope with stigmas: “We’re suffering silently and that’s not OK”

Menopause is a challenging time for many women, with symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, night sweats, and irritability. Monica Conn, 53, experienced these symptoms firsthand and decided to take action by attending the M/Power program at Canyon Ranch Health Spa. This four-day retreat in the Massachusetts Berkshires offers relief, education, and counseling for menopausal women.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines menopause as the permanent cessation of menstrual periods for at least 12 months. Common symptoms include hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood swings, and memory problems. M/Power’s retreats provide a holistic approach to managing these symptoms through activities like yoga, weight training, and cold plunges.

One key aspect of the program is medical diagnosis, which includes blood work, hormone panels, and a DEXA body scan to assess bone density and fat composition. Dr. Jennifer Baker-Porazinski explains that the drop in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to decreased bone density, putting women at higher risk for osteoporosis.

Hormone therapy (HRT) is another option for managing menopausal symptoms, but some women are hesitant due to concerns about an increased risk of breast cancer. However, Dr. Sharon Malone, chief medical advisor for the women’s telehealth platform “Alloy,” emphasizes that HRT is the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms.

Former TV journalist Tamsen Fadal, who experienced menopausal symptoms live on-air, emphasizes the importance of community support. She wrote the book “How to Menopause” as a guide for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Fadal believes that women are no longer willing to suffer in silence and are seeking solutions to manage their symptoms effectively.

Overall, menopause is a natural stage of life that can be challenging for many women. By seeking support, education, and medical guidance, women like Monica Conn and Tamsen Fadal are empowering themselves to embrace this new chapter with confidence and vitality.