Campaigning for improved menopause care – Diane Danzebrink & Dr Louise Newson

Diane Danzebrink is a psychotherapist, menopause expert, wellbeing consultant and also a great friend of Dr Newson. She is tirelessly campaigning for improved care and support for menopausal women having personally had a dreadful experience of the menopause after an operation to remove her ovaries to the extent she became suicidal. Diane always promised her husband that if she ever improved then she would campaign and fight so that other women do not suffer in the way she did.

In this episode, Dr Louise Newson and Diane discuss the #makemenopausematter campaign Diane has introduced, which now has an impressive 27,000 votes. The aims of this campaign are to improve menopause education amongst doctors and to raise awareness of the menopause within the workplace. The third aim of the campaign has been achieved – which is discussed in this podcast! Dr Newson and Diane also talk openly about the challenges they are experiencing in improving menopause care and education globally.

Diane’s Three Take Home Tips for Getting the Right Menopause Care:

1. If you are in your early 40s, educate yourself and get a general understanding of what menopause is and what it might bring.
2. Menopause does not have to be negative! This time in your life should be for reflecting on your life and re-setting your goals for the future.
3. If you’re listening and are currently going through the perimenopause or menopause, you are not alone! There are places, such as Menopause Support, where you can talk to like-minded women and get support. There are also so many resources such as balance app where you can find evidence-based advice.