Menopause is often talked about as if it’s a universal experience — but the truth is, it’s not the same for every woman. Research shows that women of colour often experience menopause differently, with variations in symptoms, severity, and duration. Yet these differences are rarely acknowledged in medical care, leaving many women without the support they need.

In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by Dr. Omolayo Famuyide, one of the few menopause doctors and specialists who is also a woman of colour. Together, we explore why representation in medicine matters and how the medical system must evolve to provide inclusive and effective care for all women in midlife.

 In this episode, we cover:

• How symptoms of menopause can differ across ethnic backgrounds — from hot flashes to sleep issues to bone health
• Why severity and duration of menopause can vary, and what that means for treatment
• The blind spots many doctors still have when treating women of colour
• Barriers to accessing care and the role of systemic inequities
• How cultural differences influence whether — and how — women seek medical help
• Evidence-based treatments and what works best for different women

This episode kicks off Menopause Awareness Month on the podcast, where I’ll be dedicating every conversation to breaking stigma, raising awareness, and giving women the knowledge they deserve about this vital stage of life.

 Tune in, share with a friend, and join us in making menopause care more inclusive.

Find Dr. Famuyide on Instagram at @layocentre or @dr.famuyidemd, or on her website at layocentre.com.

Find Melissa Grelo on Instagram @MelissaGrelo and @AgingPowerfullyWithMG, or on her website AgingPowerfullyWithMelissaGrelo.com.

EPISODE SUPPORTED BY: Aging Powerfully with Melissa Grelo: The Retreat (www.agingpowerfullywithmelissagrelo.com/retreat).

Thank to you partners,

@GoodLifeFitness, www.goodlifefitness.com

@Avene, www.eau-thermale-avene.ca

@LoveMy.Iris www.lovemyiris.com

Producer: Melissa Grelo. 

Audio/Video Producer and Editor: Drew Garner.