Navigating Menopause Together: A Conversation with Liz Minkin-Friedman
February 18, 2025 | People in Our Neighborhood
Menopause is a natural transition, yet it remains one of the most overlooked and misunderstood stages of a woman’s life. Despite affecting nearly half the population, many women feel unheard by their doctors and unsupported by society. One woman, however, is working to change that.
We spoke with Liz Minkin-Friedman, founder of Menopause Matters, a Baltimore-based support group that is creating a safe space for open conversations, shared experiences, and empowerment.
What inspired you to start this support group for women experiencing menopause?
The idea for Menopause Matters stemmed from a realization: nearly every conversation I had with women aged 45 to 55 included some mention of menopause symptoms or frustrations. Yet, menopause remains largely neglected, even though it accounts for about a third of a woman’s life. Women often feel invalidated by doctors, with limited treatment options and little acknowledgment of the profound ways menopause impacts their health and daily lives.
Historically, menopause has been a silent struggle. Previous generations accepted it as an inevitable process, rarely discussing its challenges or seeking support. A decades-old study led to fear around hormone replacement therapy (HRT), discouraging doctors from offering it as an option. The result? A lack of education, awareness, and advocacy.
When we promoted this support group, the response was overwhelming — women were eager for a dedicated space to talk about their experiences. We decided to keep the group small, capping it at 15 participants to foster meaningful discussions while maintaining a dynamic energy. We want everyone’s voice to be heard, but we also want the energy from a significant group.
What are some of the most common challenges that women in your group face?
Physically, menopause affects every part of a woman’s body, yet many doctors dismiss symptoms as a normal part of aging. The loss of estrogen impacts the gastrointestinal system, pelvic floor elasticity, heart health, and overall physical well-being—issues that are rarely discussed in medical settings. Cognitive impact can also be significant. “Brain fog” is no joke and women often just accept reduced functioning because they don’t know that there are treatments.
Emotionally, many women grapple with a complicated relationship with their bodies. There’s a delicate balance between accepting the aging process and feeling empowered to take action. Women have historically been defined by their reproductive roles, and the transition into menopause can challenge this identity. The group provides a space to reclaim a sense of self beyond reproduction and to embrace aging with strength and confidence.
Have you brought in any healthcare professionals, such as doctors or naturopaths, to speak with your group?
No. Menopause Matters is intentionally not a lecture series. There are no experts, no doctors—just women supporting each other. However, I do provide access to resources, including curated lists of informational podcasts, humorous Reels and TikToks, and recommended healthcare professionals specializing in menopause education. My goal is to facilitate discussion, not dictate solutions.
What advice would you give to women approaching menopause who may feel uncertain, unprepared, or isolated?
Knowledge is power. Seek out reputable resources—there is a growing movement of menopause educators who are working to provide accurate, helpful information. Women can reach out to me for recommendations on certified physicians or menopause consultants. Most importantly, find community. Whether through Menopause Matters or another group, connecting with others who understand can be incredibly validating and empowering.
Are there any Jewish perspectives on aging and women’s health that have provided comfort or empowerment to your group members?
In Judaism, we are partners with God in caring for our bodies. This philosophy encourages self-care and advocacy for our well-being at every stage of life. Additionally, many women experience a shift in their spiritual relationship when they stop going to the mikvah (ritual bath), which was once a way to have a significant connection to their bodies. Some group discussions can explore ways to reclaim this connection and approach aging with reverence and self-love.
What are your hopes for the future of this support group, and how do you see it evolving?
Right now, we are piloting a five-session model, meeting once a month. Depending on interest and impact, we may continue and expand. My hope is that Menopause Matters will inspire more women to have these conversations openly, advocate for their health, and support one another. Eventually, I’d love to see more structured resources, community events, and even advocacy efforts to ensure that menopause is no longer an overlooked aspect of women’s health.
Through Menopause Matters, Liz Minkin-Friedman is fostering a much-needed space where women can find understanding, knowledge, and empowerment. By breaking the silence around menopause, she is helping women navigate this transition with confidence, connection, and community.