Genelia D'Souza's take on menopause stigma sparks conversation: Expert explains why awareness matters more than assumptions

When actor Genelia D'Souza recently spoke about menopause shaming and society's discomfort with ageing, she touched on something millions of women experience but rarely discuss openly.

Menopause remains one of the most misunderstood stages of a woman's life. For decades, it has been accompanied by stereotypes that paint women as irritable, emotionally unstable or suddenly "old" once they enter this phase. Health experts say these assumptions do more harm than good.

According to Tamanna Singh, Founder of Menoveda and a certified menopause coach, menopause is a biological transition, not a personality change.

Does menopause really make women more irritable?

One of the most persistent myths is that menopause automatically turns women into angry or overly emotional versions of themselves.

"The myth is that menopause alters the personality and makes a woman too emotional. Actually, menopause is a hormonal phase that affects different people in different ways," says Singh.

More from Lifestyle

She explains that while some women may experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety, stress sensitivity, insomnia or forgetfulness because of hormonal fluctuations, menopause itself does not create a new personality.

"Stress at work or home, one's lifestyle habits, diet and amount of sleep also have an impact on emotion," she says.

In other words, a difficult day at work, poor sleep or chronic stress may influence mood just as much as hormonal changes do.

The myth that menopause makes women 'old'

Another stereotype Genelia's comments have helped bring into focus is the belief that menopause automatically accelerates ageing. "Menopause is not responsible for sudden aging or lack of confidence in women," says Singh.

Lower estrogen levels can affect collagen production, skin hydration, muscle mass and body composition. However, these changes do not define how a woman looks or feels.

"Aging is influenced by various aspects such as genetics, eating habits, exercise routines and lifestyle practices. With healthy eating, exercise, stress management and personal care, women will stay young and confident," she explains.

Experts increasingly emphasise that menopause should not be viewed as a loss of beauty, vitality or identity. Rather, it is a natural life stage that deserves the same understanding and support as puberty, pregnancy or other major hormonal transitions.

Why are conversations around menopause still so limited?

Despite affecting millions of women globally, menopause remains a topic many people feel uncomfortable discussing. "There are many cases where women in their forties or fifties are not properly informed about hormonal changes in their bodies," says Singh.

That lack of awareness can leave women confused when symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular menstrual cycles, sleep disturbances, mood changes or weight fluctuations begin to appear. Knowledge, she says, is one of the most powerful tools women can have.

"Open discussions around menopause can help remove shame and create supportive environments at home, workplaces and within healthcare systems."

Four menopause myths that need to go

According to Singh, several misconceptions continue to shape public understanding of menopause:

Myth: Menopause means emotional instability.

Reality: Hormonal changes may influence mood, but they do not define a woman's personality, competence or capabilities.

Myth: Women become less active after menopause.

Reality: Many women continue to lead energetic, successful and fulfilling lives well beyond menopause.

Myth: Weight gain is unavoidable.

Reality: Hormonal shifts can influence metabolism, but nutrition, exercise and lifestyle choices remain powerful factors.

Myth: Menopause means rapid ageing.

Reality: Menopause is a natural transition, not a loss of confidence, beauty or purpose.

A shift in the conversation

For years, menopause has been treated as something women should quietly endure. Experts believe that needs to change.

"When celebrities like Genelia D'Souza speak openly about menopause, it helps normalise discussions and challenge outdated beliefs," says Singh.

The bigger message, she adds, is that menopause should not be viewed as an ending. "It is a new stage of health that deserves understanding, preparation and support."

As more public figures and health experts speak openly about the subject, the hope is that future generations of women will approach menopause with information rather than fear—and support rather than stigma.