Why Asian Women Are Suffering Through Menopause in Silence

In this episode, Lauren sits down with Viola, a Singapore-based menopause coach and IT sales professional, for a fascinating and eye-opening conversation about what menopause looks like in Asia — and why so many women there are suffering in silence.Together, they explore how cultural attitudes, diet, lifestyle, and limited access to menopause-specific healthcare are shaping the experience of women going through perimenopause and menopause in Singapore and across Southeast Asia. Viola shares her personal journey — from discovering perimenopause through her research into anti-inflammatory nutrition, to completing the Menopause Coach Diploma and now supporting women in her community through education, coaching, and workplace advocacy.We dive into the fascinating differences in symptom profiles between Asian and Western women, the role of a high-carb diet in menopause experiences, and why joint pain — not hot flashes — tends to top the list for women in Singapore. We also explore the healthcare landscape in Singapore, from the role of GPs and specialists to the Women's Hospital Wellness Centre, and why MHT remains largely out of reach for many women without specialist referral.Viola also opens up about the generational silence around menopause, the dual pressures of work and family life, and why she believes it takes courage and wisdom to age well. And she shares some brilliant advice for men — both partners and line managers — on how they can show up and truly support the women in their lives.00:00 Introduction01:03 Viola's journey into menopause awareness and coaching02:13 How perimenopause sparked a passion for nutrition and lifestyle03:25 Working in IT sales and connecting with HR professionals04:28 Bringing menopause into the workplace — and the men who dial out05:13 Menopause symptoms in Singapore vs. the West — joint pain, sleep, and anxiety06:39 Diet differences — high-carb Asian diets and the impact on menopause08:07 How Viola is using her Menopause Coach Diploma in practice09:00 Offering 15-minute clarity calls and pro bono coaching10:11 Collaborating with nutritionists and doctors for International Women's Day talks12:20 Healthcare in Singapore — GPs, specialists, and the Women's Wellness Centre13:39 Standard health checks, DEXA scans, and the cholesterol conversation15:52 MHT in Singapore — how it's accessed and viewed16:31 Testosterone — available for men only (for now)17:08 Key takeaways from the Menopause Coach Diploma18:24 Average age of menopause in Singapore — and the juggle of work, family, and symptoms19:01 Viola's dream for menopause advocacy in her own workplace20:09 What men need to know about menopause — and Viola's husband's response22:19 Advice for male line managers and the case for flexible work arrangements23:53 Comparing lifestyles across generations — Viola's mum cycling 80km a day25:12 Genital urinary symptoms and the silence of older generations26:12 Viola's big dream — and why she coaches pro bono for now27:38 Closing wisdom: it takes courage and wisdom to age wellConnect with Viola:LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/viola-yau-v0500y/ (Please update with Viola's actual social media links)Meet 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/@womenofacertainstageTwitter/X: https://x.com/LaurenChiren