Ep 03: Navigating the Menopause with Kathy Abernethy

Ready to break down the barriers to menopause education? In this episode I’m joined by Kathy Abernethy, a specialist from the British Menopause Society with over 30 years of clinical experience. Together, we explore the critical need for informed and prepared medical appointments. We also discuss the impact of stress on menopause, the evolving education on menstrual health, and the growing interest in menopause coaching for healthcare professionals. Tune in to learn more about how knowledge is power when it comes to the menopause.Here are the Highlights:02:27 How Kathy transitioned into menopause research unexpectedly08:25 Menopause information needs to align with international guidelines10:27 Lauren shares she went into an early menopause at 3713:46 Celebrating menopause and changing the narrative17:51 Link between cortisol and severity of menopause symptoms21:44 In the last few years more focus on the life course of menstrual healthMeet your host Lauren ChirenLauren Chiren is a leading voice in menopause awareness and workplace inclusion, dedicated to ensuring no one navigates menopause alone.As the Founder and CEO of Women of a Certain Stage, she works with organisations worldwide to create menopause-savvy and supportive environments. With a background in psychology, sports therapy, and nutrition, and an extensive suite of coaching certifications, Lauren is on a mission to train 20,000 Menopause Coaches and Champions, equipping them with the tools to support individuals and workplaces through this transformative life stage. Join her as she breaks the silence, challenges the stigma, and empowers people to thrive at midlife and beyond.About Women of a Certain StageWe are committed to transforming the menopause experience—both for individuals and the organisations that support them.Our mission is to empower people through education, advocacy, and expert-led training, ensuring menopause is no longer a barrier to confidence, health, or career success.Join us and our global network of professionals dedicated to breaking the stigma, improving workplace culture, and ensuring no one navigates menopause alone.Find out more here: https://www.womenofacertainstage.com/Connect with LaurenLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenchiren/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themenopausecoach/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenOfACertainStageYouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@womenofacertainstageX: https://x.com/LaurenChirenAbout Kathy Abernethy:Kathy is past Chair of the British Menopause Society and contributed to their Handbook "Management of the Menopause'. Her courses and study days complement those of the BMS and are run by nurses for nurses. She is an editorial Board member of the journal 'Post-reproductive health'.Kathy has worked in the field of menopause for many years, has published widely on the topic in the lay and nursing press and is registered with the British Menopause Society as a Menopause Specialist.Kathy formerly led a multidisciplinary NHS menopause clinic and has her own private clinic in South West London as well as running menopause education programmes for nurses.​With a Masters in Reproductive Women’s Health and as a prescriber, her consultations are independent and she aims to inform women about menopause and enable women to make confident therapy choices.  Produced by winteraudio.co.uk