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- calendar_today October 13, 2026
Menopause Awareness Month: Spotlight on Women's Health
October marks Menopause Awareness Month, drawing attention to the health issues and experiences that women face during this significant life transition. To further educate the public, WRBL interviewed Dr. Felicia Rhaney, one of the only certified menopausal specialists in the Columbus region. Dr. Rhaney is a urogynecologist and pelvic surgeon at Piedmont Columbus Regional.
Understanding Menopause
During the interview, Dr. Rhaney provided a clear explanation of menopause. According to her, menopause is defined as the point when a woman’s ovaries stop functioning for 12 consecutive months, resulting in the absence of a menstrual cycle not attributed to any other reasons. Dr. Rhaney emphasized that this is a natural stage in a woman’s life, though it can come with a range of changes both physically and emotionally.
Recognizing Perimenopause
Dr. Rhaney noted that women often experience a transition stage known as perimenopause before reaching menopause. Perimenopause can involve various symptoms that signal hormonal changes occurring in the body prior to the official onset of menopause. Menopause education around this stage can help women better prepare for and manage the symptoms that may develop.
Common and Less-Known Menopause Symptoms
Menopause symptoms can be diverse and sometimes surprising. Dr. Rhaney listed several well-known symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats. However, she also highlighted less commonly recognized symptoms, including hair thinning, changes in facial features, crepey skin, a sensitive tongue, and extreme anxiety. Raising menopause awareness is vital so women can recognize and address these symptoms with their healthcare providers.
The Role of Menopausal Specialists
As a certified menopausal specialist and pelvic surgeon, Dr. Rhaney brings expertise to the discussion about menopause and its impact. Specialists like Dr. Rhaney play an important role in diagnosing, managing, and offering guidance about the various symptoms of menopause, from physical changes such as hair thinning to emotional experiences like anxiety and mood swings. Their support helps women navigate this transition with greater comfort and confidence.
Importance of Menopause Education and Awareness
Menopause Awareness Month underscores the need for comprehensive menopause education. Increased understanding allows women to seek suitable care for their symptoms, whether they are facing hot flashes, night sweats, or the more subtle signs associated with menopause. Greater menopause awareness can also help break down taboos, encouraging open discussions between women and healthcare professionals about their experiences and concerns.
Conclusion
Dr. Rhaney’s insights during Menopause Awareness Month highlight the diverse symptoms women may encounter and the value of seeking information from qualified menopausal specialists. By fostering greater awareness, education, and open dialogue, women can be empowered to manage their menopausal journey in a healthy and informed way.
Source: wrbl.com.
