An intimate and enlightening screening of The (M) Factor, a groundbreaking documentary on menopause, organized in collaboration with Joanne Ho of Menopause Asia, Dr. Sangeet Kaur, and Jacqie Tan was held in Kuala Lumpur recently. The event attracted an eager crowd of individuals eager to better understand the often-overlooked topic of menopause. The night was about empowerment, education, and an open discussion about a phase of life that affects millions worldwide yet remains shrouded in silence.
The (M) Factor documentary provided an unfiltered look at the realities of menopause, from debilitating symptoms and its impact in the workplace and the pressing need for better treatment options.
While the data presented in The (M) Factor is primarily based on American experiences, the symptoms and challenges faced by women during menopause are strikingly similar worldwide. The documentary offers a comprehensive look at this transition, featuring personal stories from women of various backgrounds and ages, each sharing their unique experiences. It also includes expert commentary from doctors, researchers, and advocates who explain the science behind menopause and stress the importance of better education and support for those undergoing this stage in life.
Following the screening, a passionate Q&A session took place, moderated by host Bernie Chan, with panelists Dr. Sangeet Kaur – a BHRT-certified doctor and functional medicine expert, Jacqie Tan-co-founder of SheCollective, a women health and wellness movement and Joanne Ho – a Menopause Coach, Certified Functional Hormone Health Specialist, and Founder of Menopause Asia. The panelists emphasized the need for better awareness and resources for menopause hormone therapy, holistic health solutions, and workplace menopause policies.
The panel also urged healthcare professionals to recognize the importance of this natural life transition and to approach it with the seriousness it deserves. They called on doctors and medical providers to ask the right questions, listen attentively to patients, and avoid dismissing menopause symptoms as simply part of aging. Additionally, the inclusion of allied healthcare professionals, such as therapists, nutritionists, fitness coaches and physiotherapists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. By adopting a more holistic and empathetic approach, healthcare providers can ensure that individuals experiencing menopause receive the support and treatment they need to navigate this phase with dignity and proper care.
As menopause continues to be an under-discussed topic in Malaysia, more awareness is urgently needed, both in urban and rural areas. The stigma surrounding menopause must be broken, and efforts to educate the public, healthcare providers, and workplaces must be prioritized. Additionally, more research is needed to better understand the unique experiences of women in Malaysia, ensuring that culturally relevant support and treatment options are accessible to all.
