Tamsen Fadal first experienced perimenopause symptoms as a TV anchor when she was in her 40s. She … More
There have been numerous “how-to” books available, including some with unusual titles such as How to Survive a Robot Uprising and How to Avoid Huge Ships. However, when Tamsen Fadal first encountered perimenopause symptoms as a TV news anchor in her 40s, she found a lack of credible resources on menopause. Experiencing these symptoms live on TV, she initially did not realize she was going through perimenopause and felt a sense of “losing control” over her body. Her journey led her to delve into investigative journalism and author the book How to Menopause: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better than Before.
In a recent conversation, Fadal shared her perimenopause and menopause experiences and discussed her motivation behind writing the book and raising awareness on these topics. She highlighted the ageism and stigma surrounding perimenopause and menopause, pointing out the shame and societal pressure faced by women transitioning beyond their reproductive years. Despite the natural progression from potential childbearing to menopause, societal norms often place undue emphasis on a woman’s reproductive status.
Fadal’s Journey Through Perimenopause On Live TV
With a successful career in TV journalism, Fadal, now 54, encountered perimenopause symptoms during her anchoring duties. Starting her career at WHNZ Radio in Tampa, she went on to work for various TV stations across different cities. However, it was during a live TV broadcast that she experienced sudden hot flashes and other symptoms, leading her to seek relief off-camera. The lack of awareness and guidance from healthcare professionals prompted her to investigate and educate herself on perimenopause.
Perimenopause symptoms stem from declining estrogen and progesterone levels, impacting menstrual cycles and causing various physical and emotional changes. Fadal described these symptoms as debilitating, affecting her sleep and daily life. Common symptoms include irregular periods, mood swings, hot flashes, and more.
Navigating Perimenopause and Menopause in the Workplace
Fadal emphasized the impact of perimenopause and menopause on one’s career and confidence. Many women face challenges in the workplace due to these symptoms, leading some to exit the workforce prematurely. Her book provides insights on managing symptoms and advocating for oneself at work, stressing the importance of open communication and seeking support.
Recognizing the societal taboos surrounding menopause, Fadal has taken steps to raise awareness through her book and the film “The M Factor: Shredding The Silence On Menopause.” The film aims to shed light on the unspoken challenges women face during menopause and empower women to advocate for their health.
If you are experiencing symptoms impacting your daily life, don’t suffer in silence. Seek information, support, and empower yourself to navigate this natural phase of life. Fadal’s journey serves as a reminder that menopause is a normal part of a woman’s life story, and it’s essential to address it openly and proactively.
