Breaking The Silence and Reducing Stigma Surrounding Menopause: Empowering Women Through Education and Advocacy

By Jovie Tavares, NP

As a dedicated Nurse Practitioner, advocate for women's health, and longtime Long Beach resident, I’m passionate about optimizing midlife health in our community through advocacy, education, and empowerment, one woman at a time. 

As I look back, I'm reminded of the importance of breaking the silence and reducing the stigma around menopause. With over 35 years of serving the underserved population, I’ve witnessed the impact of inadequate care on women’s health. For too long, midlife women have been underserved and overlooked. Women in midlife are at the prime of their lives and have so much to give. I want midlife women not just to survive, but to thrive beyond menopause!

My own menopause experience was lonely, complex, and at times lost. I felt trapped in a body that no longer felt like my own. I was enraged by the lack of resources available, igniting a passion within me to create change. No woman should navigate this journey alone and in silence. 

Jovi Tavares hosts "Navigating the Menopause Maze Through Empowerment"

On March 8^th, with the support of Councilmember Kristina Duggan, I hosted "Navigating the Menopause Maze Through Empowerment." This well-attended event, held at the Recreation Park Community Center, affirmed a pressing community need: evidence-based education and compassionate support.  With an overwhelming response, the event demonstrated just how many women are searching for clarity, care, and connection.

Since the event, I have held monthly Menopause Circles and Menopause events for ongoing support. I am actively collaborating with local businesses to uplift women’s health initiatives.

Optimizing health must be patient-centered and multidisciplinary, in collaboration with other healthcare providers, to achieve shared decision-making. To make informed decisions, women deserve access to experts who can collaborate and provide information using current research and consider treatments, with alternatives to facilitate the best course.

Looking ahead, I invite the community to save October 25th for our next gathering: The Menopause Party in celebration of International Menopause Day.

Looking ahead, I invite the community to save October 25th for our next gathering: The Menopause Party in celebration of International Menopause Day.

I believe the future of healthcare lies in a patient-centered model, a multidisciplinary approach, self-advocacy, and shared decision-making. Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for women and redefine menopause. For more information, reach out through the BHCA!