USM Brings menopause into the open with community discussion on health and wellness

GREAT BAY--Menopause and the physical, emotional and psychological changes women experience during this stage of life took center stage at the University of St. Martin (USM), where a packed audience participated in an open discussion about symptoms, hormone replacement therapy, mental health, intimacy and the importance of greater public awareness.

The public lecture, titled “(Peri)Menopause… Nobody Told Me This!”, was held on Thursday, October 15, in observance of World Menopause Day. The strong turnout and active participation highlighted the need for more opportunities in St. Maarten to discuss a subject that many women still find difficult to talk about openly.

The event brought together women from across the community, students, medical and healthcare professionals, herbalists and other interested participants. Men were also present, reinforcing the importance of involving partners, families and the wider community in conversations about menopause.

What began as an educational presentation developed into an exchange of personal experiences, questions and information about the changes associated with perimenopause and menopause.

The discussion addressed a broad range of issues, including hormonal changes, physical symptoms, emotional well-being, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), fitness, lifestyle adjustments, intimacy and natural and herbal approaches.

The panel featured Dr. Laurien Reinders, General Practitioner; Kenan L'Homme, Certified Naturopathic Practitioner and Menopause Coach; and Amy Arrindell, Educator, Counselor, Author and Founder and CEO of Amy Arrindell Knowledge Toolbox.

Each panelist contributed a different perspective, combining conventional medical information with discussions of complementary wellness approaches and the emotional and social experiences associated with menopause.

The session was moderated by Khalilah Peters, who guided the discussion and encouraged audience participation.

An important feature of the evening was the opportunity for attendees to ask sensitive questions anonymously, allowing individuals who might otherwise have been uncomfortable speaking publicly to raise personal concerns.

Other participants chose to address the panel directly during the question-and-answer segment.

The format encouraged candid discussions about topics that are sometimes considered uncomfortable or taboo, including changes in physical health, mental well-being and intimate relationships.

According to USM, several participants expressed appreciation for being able to discuss experiences that are often misunderstood or rarely addressed in everyday conversations.

Some attendees said the information presented helped them better understand physical and emotional changes they had been experiencing.

For others, hearing that women around them were dealing with similar symptoms provided reassurance and helped reduce feelings of uncertainty or isolation.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of recognizing symptoms, paying attention to changes in the body and seeking appropriate medical or professional advice when necessary.

Panelists emphasized that experiences with perimenopause and menopause vary from person to person. They encouraged participants to take an active role in managing their health by asking questions, seeking reliable information and consulting qualified professionals.

The discussion of hormone replacement therapy and other approaches also provided an opportunity to examine different ways women may address symptoms and maintain their well-being during this stage of life.

The University said the strong attendance demonstrated a clear interest in continuing conversations about women's health, particularly subjects that may not receive sufficient attention through traditional public education.

The institution views such initiatives as an extension of its educational role, providing opportunities for learning and community engagement beyond the classroom.

USM thanked Dr. Reinders, L'Homme and Arrindell for contributing their expertise, as well as Peters for moderating the discussion.

The University also expressed appreciation to everyone who attended and participated.

Those who registered for the lecture will receive copies of the presentations by email, allowing them to revisit the information and continue learning.

The event reinforced the importance of ensuring that women have access to information and supportive environments where they can speak openly about menopause without embarrassment or stigma.

USM said it remains committed to facilitating educational activities and community conversations that address health, wellness and other issues affecting the people of St. Maarten.

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