THE M FACTOR

Tamsen Fadal is rewriting the narrative for women in midlife. After more than 30 years as a news anchor, she made the decision to pivot her career to focus on all things menopause. She co-produced the documentary, “The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause,” which premiered on PBS in October. She also wrote the book, How to Menopause: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better than Before. Her goal is to eliminate the stigma of menopause and foster an environment where women feel comfortable discussing their midlife transition. From the boardroom to the doctor’s office, Tamsen advocates for a world where women can manage their lives with confidence, no matter their age.

Tell us about what drove you to be a menopause advocate?
One night while I was reading the news, I was blindsided by heart palpitations, brain fog, and symptoms I later learned were part of an epic hot flash. For the first time in decades, I didn’t finish the newscast. It turns out I was in menopause, and it started me on a journey to understand what was happening. I was shocked by the lack of open conversation and resources available to women. I became a menopause advocate after experiencing the complexities of menopause myself and realizing how underserved this phase of life is in both society and healthcare.

Let’s talk about women’s health: how hard is it to get medical help with menopause symptoms?
It can be really challenging for many women to find the right medical help for menopause symptoms. There’s often a lack of awareness and understanding among healthcare providers about menopause, perimenopause, and the management of symptoms. Luckily, we are seeing more doctors seeking to understand it, and we are helping women not feel fear or shame when it comes to seeking help. There is no excuse for a woman being dismissed when she is trying to be treated.

Which kinds of practitioners do you find to be the most helpful? 
It would be ideal if all practitioners were educated about menopause, which is why I am so thrilled our documentary, The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, has been accredited for continuing medical education (CME) credits. We need every type of provider to understand this, from gynecologists to endocrinologists to mental health professionals to holistic practitioners like dietitians and physical therapists, who can offer lifestyle advice to help manage symptoms.

You mention “34 symptoms of menopause,” what are some of the most surprising ones? 
Some of the surprising symptoms include changes in body odor, electric shock sensations, and a feeling of dread or doom. These less talked about symptoms often catch women off guard because they are not as widely recognized as hot flashes or night sweats.

What is the most common question you get asked about menopause? 
The most common question I get asked is, “Why don’t I feel like myself?” Many women are looking for reassurance that their menopause symptoms are a typical part of the transition and not something more serious. And that they are not alone.

You have said that “menopause is a transition, not a disease.” What advice would you offer someone navigating their own transition? 
I would advise women to embrace menopause as a natural part of life and focusing on self-care. This can include educating yourself about what to expect, seeking support from other women, and advocating for oneself in medical settings to ensure you receive the care you need. Plus, we can’t leave men out of the conversation — they must understand what we are dealing with and how to recognize the symptoms.

Research shows that women are generally happier post menopause, why do you think that is? 
Many women find a sense of freedom and relief after menopause. The challenges of menstrual cycles and fertility concerns are behind them, which can lead to a newfound sense of control over their bodies and lives.

Tell me a little about your book. 
How to Menopause is the expert-driven, girlfriend approved guide for women navigating this transition. It covers everything from understanding and managing symptoms to lifestyle changes and relationship advice. I interviewed 42 experts to get the resources and advice in the book, so women can learn to not just survive but thrive during menopause and beyond.

What do you think the future looks like for women’s health and menopause care? 
I’m optimistic about the future of women’s health and menopause care. With increased awareness and advocacy, we’re seeing more research, better healthcare solutions, and a growing number of resources dedicated to supporting women through menopause. Plus, we are seeing telehealth companies, such as Alloy Women’s Health, Midi Health, and Maven, reaching more women than ever before. I am excited to see it happening.

How do you feel that attitudes about menopause are changing? 
Attitudes toward menopause are definitely changing, becoming more open and informed. There’s a growing recognition that menopause is a significant life stage that deserves attention and care, not something to be whispered about or endured in silence. But we are nowhere near done making noise — this is not just a moment that menopause is having — this is a movement.