Menopause, a topic often shrouded in silence, especially within South Asian communities, is taking center stage as women like Romi advocate for open dialogues. Menopause is a significant transition in any woman's life, marking the end of reproductive years. It comes with various physical and emotional changes, necessitating greater awareness and understanding, especially in communities where it is rarely talked about.

Many women, particularly those of South Asian origin, often find it challenging to speak about menopause. This reluctance can be attributed to several factors, including cultural taboos, a lack of exposure, and limited access to appropriate healthcare resources. Historically, such discussions were considered taboo, leading to a dearth of information and understanding among both women and men in the community.

"They would say, let's just shove it under the carpet and not talk about it," Romi notes, recalling her mother's experience.

Romi stresses the importance of family support during this significant change. "My husband is very supportive. If I did not have a supportive husband who did not understand what I'm going through, I think men play such a huge part," she shares, highlighting the critical role partners can play in understanding menopause.

Women's experiences with menopause can vary widely, necessitating tailored approaches for each individual's journey. Like many women, Romi dealt with weight gain and emotional ups and downs. She discovered valuable insights into managing these challenges through mentorship and guidance from informed friends and healthcare professionals.

• Switching to healthier food preparation methods, such as oven baking instead of frying.
• Integrating effective weight training and fitness routines, assorting these with running and spinning to support physical changes.

Mainstream conversations about menopause remain largely limited to certain demographics, with South Asian and Black women's stories often excluded. Romi emphasized, "Menopause programs have been done, but come on, it hasn’t been done. We should include Asian communities or the black communities where they might not have that help..."

Raising awareness is crucial, and Romi is determined to break barriers by documenting her journey in books and media. She aims to inspire further dialogue and encourage other women experiencing menopause to vocalize their experiences without the burden of traditional constraints.

By sharing her story, Romi hopes to dispel myths around menopause and normalize conversations, particularly within marginalized groups. The takeaway is clear: starting conversations on menopause isn't just about raising awareness; it's a crucial journey toward understanding women's health and wellbeing within diverse cultural contexts.

By removing the shroud of secrecy, communities can foster environments where women openly discuss their bodies and health, empowering them to seek the care and understanding they rightly deserve.