Women Don’t Expire: Aging, Menopause, and Cultural Myths - Part 1

In this episode of Unzipping Taboos, we unzip a topic too many women are expected to navigate without enough information: perimenopause and menopause.We break down what perimenopause and menopause actually mean, why symptoms can show up long before periods stop completely, and why this transition can feel confusing, unpredictable, and surprisingly isolating. From sleep disruption and mood changes to hot flashes, and body changes,  we talk honestly about what women may experience—and why no two journeys look exactly alike.We also discuss the importance of finding reliable health information, advocating for yourself in medical settings, and questioning outdated narratives around menopause care and treatment options like hormone replacement therapy (HRT).This conversation became bigger than one episode, so in Part 2 we’ll continue beyond the biology—into healthcare experiences, aging, body image, cultural messages about women and desirability, and why society still has work to do in how we talk about growing older.Because aging isn’t something to fear—and women deserve information, support, and honest conversations along the way.If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestionsIf you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question