What is menopause, and is it the same for everyone? Those two questions are central to a symposium happening later this week in Sudbury.
Event organizer Lisa Lounsbury, a menopause coach, says menopause “is something every woman will go through, but the experience is different for everyone. It’s a natural phase of life when the body starts producing less estrogen and progesterone — two key hormones during our childbearing years. This transition happens in three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.”
When does it start? Lounsbury says that in the mid-30s, it begins for some and may last up to 10 years once it commences.
“During this time, some women barely notice a change, while others face a wide range of symptoms that can really affect day-to-day life,” Lounsbury says. “In fact, new research has revealed over 70 different symptoms linked to menopause — and many have been misdiagnosed or overlooked in the past.”
Why has no one in Sudbury hosted a menopause symposium before? “Up until just recently, the topic of menopause has been considered taboo and highly stigmatized. Fortunately, women currently experiencing menopause have started to speak out, and more and more clinical experts are starting to learn more about menopause and advocating for women’s health.”
Lounsbury says it is time for a change in how people approach the subject.
The day includes an expert panel featuring Shannon Kenrick-Rochon, menopause-focused clinician; Tara O’Brien, naturopathic doctor; Dawn Condon, a certified yoga therapist; and, naturally, Lounsbury herself. “Shannon and Tara will share highlights from their current research and practices related to menopause and women’s health,” Lounsbury says.
Lounsbury is known for her focus on wellness and health. She says that doing an event on this topic is “a natural next step — especially now that both Dawn Condon and I are navigating menopause ourselves.
“With over 30 years each in the wellness industry, we’ve dedicated our careers to supporting others on their health journeys. Now, experiencing this transition firsthand, we’ve seen just how much misinformation, misdiagnosis, and silence still surround menopause.
“We’re ready to change that — and empower others to do the same.”
Lounsbury says she believes everyone will come away with information and confidence.
There will be a special screening of the powerful new documentary The M Factor – Shredding the Silence. Following the film, participants will have the chance to share their thoughts, respond to key questions from the documentary and submit their own questions for the panel to address.
“We’ve called it a symposium because this event is all about education and empowerment around women’s health — specifically as it relates to menopause,” Lounsbury says.
“By bringing together women, experts, and community resources, we’re creating a space where everyone can feel heard, supported, and empowered. There’s exciting new research to share, myths to bust, and valuable insights to offer — so women have the knowledge and tools they need to truly thrive during this important stage of life.”
The symposium happens on Saturday, April 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Sudbury.
It is expected that attendance will top 100 and there will be close to 20 vendors.
The cost is $40 a person.
For registration, go to www.connectivinglivingyoga.com, or reach Lounsbury directly at lisa@newdaywellness.ca.
