Navigating midlife and menopause doesn’t have to be a mystery—or a struggle. Dr. Mary Claire Haver, author of The Galveston Diet and The New Menopause, wants women to take charge of their health with better tools and understanding. From unexpected symptoms to a frustrating lack of research funding, Dr. Haver’s mission is clear: Women need—and deserve—comprehensive care at every stage of life.
The reality is, menopause is about far more than hot flashes. Dr. Haver emphasizes that fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, sleep disturbances, and even mood swings are all normal symptoms—but many women aren’t prepared because they’ve never been told what to expect. In fact, many women feel dismissed or even gaslit by healthcare providers when they try to bring these issues up.
One of the biggest hurdles is that menopause-related research is severely underfunded. Despite the fact that 51% of the population will experience menopause, NIH funding for menopause is only a fraction of what’s available for other conditions. In Dr. Haver’s words, “Menopause isn’t even a category of funding.” And that lack of research trickles down to patient care. Many physicians receive only a few hours of menopause training during their entire education, leaving women feeling like they have to figure it out alone.
So, what can YOU do?
- Educate yourself: Understanding your body is step one. Read books like The New Menopause to know what’s happening in midlife and what symptoms to expect. Knowledge is power, and it will help you advocate for yourself.
- Push for better care: If your doctor isn’t listening or dismisses your symptoms, don’t settle. Look for providers—like those at Dr. Haver’s clinic, Mary Claire Wellness—who specialize in menopause and whole-person care. Telehealth options are also a great way to access specialists.
- Explore treatment options: While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) isn’t for everyone, it can offer life-changing benefits. For those who can’t use HRT, there are effective non-hormonal options available. Make sure you ask for all the options, including safe vaginal estrogen treatments.
- Find support: Many women feel isolated in their struggles, but you’re not alone. Seek out communities or resources—whether it’s online forums or wellness programs—where you can connect with others navigating similar experiences.
The bottom line? Menopause isn’t just about surviving hot flashes. It’s about thriving through midlife with the right knowledge, support, and care. Women deserve individualized attention, not outdated one-size-fits-all solutions. And when doctors listen, understand, and treat women as whole people—not just a collection of symptoms—health outcomes improve.
Your health journey matters, and you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right tools and support, midlife can be an empowering chapter full of strength and renewal. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
