xAnts

The Queensland Health Facebook page shared a post aimed at raising awareness about perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause. However, the choice of words – "cougar puberty" – was widely seen as dismissive, trivializing, and deeply disrespectful to women experiencing this significant life stage. The post quickly went viral, drawing a flood of angry comments and accusations of insensitivity from users.

The term “cougar puberty” is not only inaccurate but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about older women. Perimenopause is a complex biological process involving hormonal fluctuations, physical changes, and emotional challenges. Reducing it to a flippant term like “cougar puberty” minimizes the seriousness of the experience and can be incredibly invalidating for women going through it.

Many women shared their personal experiences with perimenopause, highlighting the challenges they face – from hot flashes and sleep disturbances to mood swings and cognitive difficulties. They argued that Queensland Health, as a public health organization, should be leading the way in providing accurate and supportive information, not contributing to stigma and misunderstanding.

Queensland Health swiftly deleted the post and issued an apology, stating that the terminology was “unintentional” and that they were “committed to providing respectful and accurate information about women’s health.” However, the incident has raised serious questions about the training and sensitivity of those responsible for managing the department’s social media presence.

This episode underscores the urgent need for improved menopause education and awareness within healthcare systems and the wider community. It's crucial for healthcare professionals and public health organizations to understand the complexities of perimenopause and menopause and to communicate about these topics with empathy, accuracy, and respect. Using insensitive language not only alienates women but also hinders open conversations about menopause, preventing women from seeking the support and information they need.

• Improved Training: Queensland Health, and other similar organizations, should invest in training for staff on menopause awareness and respectful communication.
• Consultation with Experts: Engage with menopause specialists and women's health advocates to ensure accuracy and sensitivity in all public health messaging.
• Open Dialogue: Create platforms for open and honest conversations about menopause, where women feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking support.
• Accurate Information: Provide clear, concise, and evidence-based information about perimenopause and menopause, addressing common concerns and debunking myths.