How to Talk to Your Children About Menopause

Dear MHI Reader,

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, yet many mothers feel unsure about how to explain it to their children. Whether you’re experiencing mood swings, sleep disturbances, or simply not feeling like yourself, your children are likely to notice. A gentle, honest conversation can make a real difference.

Start with openness.

You don’t need to dive into medical details. Just explain that menopause is a time when a woman’s body stops having periods and goes through some hormonal changes, similar to how young people go through puberty. Reassure them that it’s not an illness and that you’re managing it.

Helpful tips for starting the conversation:

1. Choose a calm moment: Avoid times when either of you feels rushed or stressed.

2. Use age-appropriate language: Keep it simple for younger children and allow older ones to ask questions.

3. Acknowledge your symptoms with kindness: e.g., “I might feel a bit more tired or irritable, but it’s part of something called menopause and I’m okay”.

4. Reassure them: Just to let them know, your love for them and your role as their parent haven’t changed.

These conversations build trust, reduce stigma, and help young people grow up more informed and empathetic.

Let’s continue shaping a generation that understands and respects every phase of womanhood, starting at home.

Can you think of just one person in your network who would like to read Meno Health Information? Please forward the newsletter.