Menopause cafe opens in Lymington in a bid to raise awareness
The event aims to break down the stigma around the condition and increase awareness of the impacts it has on those experiencing it, their family, friends and their colleagues
A menopause cafe, aimed at breaking down the stigma around menopause and increasing awareness of the impact it had on those experiencing it has opened in Lymington today (Saturday 21st October).
The event will be held in the coffee shop at Otter Garden Centre, Milford Road and is a discussion group, open to all ages and genders.
The Menopause Café movement started in Perth , Scotland, in 2017 and has spread worldwide, with volunteers now hosting pop-up events in the UK, Bahrain, Mexico, USA, Austria and India. The charity also organise an annual Menopause Festival, #FlushFest, which will be held in Edinburgh and online on September 8th and 9th 2023.
Rachel Weiss, founder of the Menopause Café charity, says, “The Menopause Café is for everyone who wants to talk about the menopause, to share their stories, experiences and questions - all made that little bit easier with tea and cake.
"Unfortunately, many people feel that they should just ‘get on with’ the menopause, with some never talking to their friends or family about it.
"People can come along and just listen, or join in the discussions, hopefully leaving with a clearer sense of the impact of the menopause on those who are experiencing it, alongside their families, friends and colleagues.”
Kirsty Wark, patron of the Menopause Café Charity, said: “I am delighted to be a patron of this charity which is dedicated to get everyone talking about the menopause. This is the way to a healthier, happier future”.
The 2 hour event is being organised by Helen Dennett and will start at 10am.
Helen said: “I don’t remember puberty being a problem to me...it might have been hell for those around me, I don’t know, but it didn’t really impact me, yet I remember so many conversations and lessons in school relating to it.
"I’m 44 and perimenopause has hit me this year and I’ve been left reeling, wondering why I didn’t know what was coming.
"My thinking is because Menopause is Puberty’s nastier, older ugly sister, and generally we only talk about the Princesses and not the Ugly Sister’s. Well, I’m want to change that for others!
"I heard about the Menopause Café movement and thought it was a fantastic idea so registered to become the host for the whole New Forest South area. I’m looking for other venues across the region who would like to get involved, ideally I’d like to be able to host a Café every month, moving between 5 or 6 venues.
"I’ve also set up a Facebook group, Menopause Café New Forest South, to run alongside the in person events.”
Booking is a must for this first event. For more information, please see the events tab on the website or email Helen at menopausecafenfsouth@gmail.com