By Debi Marriott-Lavery, CEO Magenta Living

Menopause is something every woman will go through at some point, but the experience itself is as varied as we are. Some might sail through with barely a symptom, while others, like me, find it disruptive, confusing, and sometimes overwhelming.

Thankfully, menopause is being spoken about more openly now. We’re not just reducing it to the stereotype of ‘hot flushes’ but acknowledging how it can affect every aspect of life, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

It’s about time we recognise that menopause isn’t just a women’s issue – it’s a health issue that impacts families, workplaces, and communities. This year, as we approach World Menopause Awareness Day with the theme of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), I want to share my own experience.

This is not just about menopause – it’s about women’s health and the way it affects all of us. It’s also about how, as a CEO, I believe in creating supportive workplaces where women can thrive, even when their health presents new challenges.

My menopause story

I’ll never forget my first experience with perimenopause. It felt like a wave of heat so sudden and intense that I thought I was having a stroke. It was terrifying. It marked the beginning of a long and difficult phase, which included major surgery that led to surgical menopause.

My body changed overnight, and without any hormones of my own, I felt like I’d lost control. The first few weeks after surgery were especially hard. It wasn’t just the physical recovery – it was the emotional upheaval. I wasn’t ready for how much the menopause would affect my mental health, something I hadn’t experienced before.

And the stigma surrounding menopause didn’t help. Society still links menopause with ‘getting old’, but I didn’t feel old. I was left wondering, “Who am I now?”. Returning to work felt like a lifeline. I’ve always thrived on being busy and productive, but even that became a challenge. My memory, which used to be almost photographic, wasn’t as sharp. My speech changed, too, sometimes I’d find myself pausing, unsure of my words. It was frustrating, and there were moments when I felt like I was losing touch with the person I knew myself to be.

HRT: A lifeline but not without challenges

HRT has been my lifesaver, but it didn’t come easy. It took time to find the right balance. As someone with coeliac disease and lactose intolerance, there were complications along the way, and I’m fortunate that I could seek private medical support to get the help I needed.

I’ve been on HRT for about eight years now. Recently, I started to worry about being on it for so long, especially after hearing mixed messages. Would it be harmful in the long run? Would I have to go through menopause again if I stopped? A 360 medical review gave me clarity. My consultant reassured me that, for my situation and the dosage I’m on, staying on HRT is the best choice.

The benefits far outweigh the risks, and the research today is more comprehensive than ever before. But I want to emphasise that this is my personal experience. I’m not an expert in HRT or menopause, I’m simply sharing what has worked for me, and it may not be the right path for everyone. Everyone’s experience with menopause is different, everyone’s menopause story is different.

The key is having informed conversations about your options and making the decision that’s right for your health and well-being. What I would say though is that HRT is not something to fear, but it’s about finding what works for you and your health needs.

Menopause in the workplace: why support matters

As a CEO, I know how much menopause can affect women at work.

Menopausal women are the fastest-growing demographic in the workplace, yet too many are struggling in silence. Did you know that three in four people going through menopause experience symptoms, and one in four women consider leaving their jobs because of those symptoms?

That’s an alarming statistic, especially when the solution is often simply understanding and support. At Magenta, we’ve been working hard to create a supportive environment for everyone at every stage of life. Regarding women’s health, we’re not just talking about menopause once a year, we’re committed to ensuring all our employees feel empowered to bring their full selves to work, without fear or shame.

Earlier this year, we hosted a menopause event to raise awareness and start an open dialogue, and we’re following up with a panel discussion later in October to keep the conversation going. The truth is, menopause doesn’t just affect women, it impacts everyone around them.

Whether it’s partners, families, or colleagues, understanding menopause helps create more compassionate relationships. In the workplace, it’s crucial that we recognise the specific challenges women face during menopause and provide the right support. That could be as simple as offering flexible working hours or ensuring that women feel comfortable discussing their health without judgement.

Knowledge is power!

If I’ve learnt anything from my experience with menopause, it’s this: knowledge and support are everything. The more we talk about menopause and HRT, the less taboo it becomes. This isn’t just about managing symptoms, it’s about taking control of our health, our careers, and our lives.

Let’s remember that this is a conversation about women’s health, and it matters for everyone. Whether you’re experiencing menopause yourself or supporting someone who is, understanding what’s happening is the first step.

At work and at home, let’s make sure women feel seen, supported, and empowered.

If you’re looking for more information, here are some helpful resources: