The Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) Foundation recently hosted the first international screening of The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, a powerful documentary that addresses the unique challenges of menopause.

The event held at Locale, aimed to foster a meaningful dialogue on menopause’s impact on women’s health, careers, and overall well-being, with a particular focus on the Jamaican context.

Following the screening, attendees were engaged in an expert-led panel discussion that provided insights into the realities of perimenopause and menopause. Moderated by Dr Dainia Baugh, Chair of the HIC Foundation, and Rose Tavares-Finson, certified health and fitness professional, the panel featured prominent voices in women’s health, including Dr Sara Lawrence Lewis, OBGYN at Charis Women’s Wellness and Dr Raejean Porter, Physiotherapist. Also contributing were Jodi Mair, Fitness Professional, Karla Henry, Menopause Coach at Simply Real Support and Angelie Spencer, Wellness/Design Influencer, who shared their personal menopause experiences, emphasising the value of shared stories in reshaping public perception.

The panel discussion underscored the need to correct common misconceptions about menopause. Dr Baugh shared, “The (M) Factor screening and discussion offers an invaluable opportunity to break the silence on menopause and expand awareness around this often-overlooked stage of women’s health. The increased societal openness around menopause shows progress, but we hope this event deepens the dialogue. We’re honoured to provide this platform as part of our commitment to helping women feel empowered and informed through every stage of their lives.”

The panel explored how menopause has historically been misunderstood, with medicine often characterising it as ‘a time when women lose purpose after childbearing’. This outdated view has fueled stigmas around hormone therapy and undermined women’s confidence during this phase. Panellists discussed how modern research counters these ideas, showing that many neurological changes occurring in menopause can positively impact cognitive function and overall brain health. Studies indicate that the menopausal experience varies widely, with some women experiencing significant changes during perimenopause while others have minimal symptoms. A “rebound effect” post-menopause has also been noted, where some women regain premenopausal functionality or stabilise, dispelling myths that menopause inherently marks a decline.

Attendees were also provided with strategies for optimising health during this transition, such as lifestyle modifications, safe hormone therapy, and non-hormonal treatments. Panellists encouraged women to work with healthcare providers on personalised menopause plans and discussed how regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can contribute to better health outcomes during menopause.

HIC’s goal is to empower women with choices for managing menopausal symptoms safely, whether through lifestyle modifications, hormone therapy, or non-hormonal options. By staying active, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and fibre, managing weight, and avoiding smoking, women can optimise their health during this transition. Women are encouraged to work with their healthcare providers to develop personalised menopause plans, including options for managing both physical and emotional changes. We’re here to help women reclaim confidence, comfort, and control through this natural life stage.

This screening also served as a prelude to HIC’s Masters of Medicine Conference, returning in 2025 under the theme “Her Heart Matters.”Partnering with Yale School Of Medicine, the conference will explore essential women’s health topics with a special emphasis on cardiovascular care. Since 2012, the Masters of Medicine Conference has brought together healthcare professionals, business leaders, and policymakers, fostering collaboration across local and international experts. The upcoming event promises to continue this legacy, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive healthcare approaches to empower women throughout every stage of their lives.

HIC Foundation remains dedicated to supporting women’s health through education, research, and meaningful community initiatives, addressing the unique needs of women in Jamaica and beyond.