The Year Menopause Went Mainstream episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 18, 2026 · 33 MIN

The Year Menopause Went Mainstream

from The 'Pause · host Valerie Lego

Send us Fan MailWe look back at how menopause went mainstream in 2025 and map what’s ahead for 2026, from the end of the estrogen black box warning to new nonhormonal options. We share practical steps to find better care, unpack testosterone access, and invite you into our community.• why menopause conversations exploded across work and daily life• lifting the estrogen black box warning and what changed• vaginal estrogen for GSM, UTIs and sepsis risk reduction• separating systemic vs local hormones and real risks• new nonhormonal hot flash medications and who benefits• how to avoid medical gaslighting and find trained providers• testosterone therapy for women, access barriers and dosing tips• earlier awareness in late thirties to prevent misery• building community and agency through evidence-based careJoin the Pause Diaries on Facebook: “You should join this conversation in the Pause Diaries. It’s our Facebook group… a place where like 700 women are sharing and supporting each other.”Loved this conversation? Let’s keep it going. Join our private Facebook group, The Pause Diaries, where we dive deeper into all things perimenopause and menopause—without judgment, just real talk.If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend or colleague. And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Pause Podcast—your support helps us bring more expert voices to the table. Got a story, symptom, or question? Send it my way at by posting it our Facebook Group The Pause Diaries that supports the podcast. I just might feature it in an upcoming episode!Until next time, stay curious, stay empowered, and never hit pause on your wellbeing.

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The Year Menopause Went Mainstream

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This episode was published on February 18, 2026.

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Send us Fan MailWe look back at how menopause went mainstream in 2025 and map what’s ahead for 2026, from the end of the estrogen black box warning to new nonhormonal options. We share practical steps to find better care, unpack testosterone access,...

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