Women Don’t Expire: Aging, Menopause, and Cultural Myths - Part 2

In Part 2 of our conversation on perimenopause and menopause, we move beyond biology and into the healthcare experiences, cultural messages, and societal expectations that shape how women experience aging.We break down the differences between Pap smears and pelvic exams, talk about changing screening recommendations, and discuss why regular healthcare conversations remain important throughout adulthood.Then we zoom out. Why are women so often taught that aging makes them less visible, less desirable, or less valuable? Why are menopausal experiences so often reduced to stereotypes while companies market endless products promising to “fix” what aging changes?We unzip media portrayals of menopause, body image, desirability, and the pressure women face to resist aging rather than experience it. We also talk about self-acceptance, questioning messages designed to profit from insecurity, and the growing movement of women rejecting shame and embracing aging on their own terms.Because women do not lose their value with age—and better conversations create better care, challenge outdated narratives, and make space for women to be fully seen.If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr.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