Rethinking menopause in ministry

While considering what to share this month, I realised I hadn’t yet written about menopause. I deeply admire how Woman Alive has done remarkable work in discussing and supporting women through this stage of life. It’s one of my favourite areas to work in, so I decided to write about menopause, particularly within the context of church organisations. 

I’ve sat with hundreds of women in my consultations, and one truth always stands out: menopause is not just a medical event, it’s a deeply human and spiritual transition. And yet, it’s a subject still whispered about in many spaces — including our churches. 

When we ignore menopause in church life, we risk losing not just the wellbeing of women but the richness of wisdom, leadership and stability they bring to our communities. This is why I believe the Church must become a place where menopause is acknowledged, supported and honoured.

The impact of menopause

Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, often at the very point when women are stepping most fully into leadership and responsibility. In medical terms, symptoms can include hot flushes, brain fog, poor sleep and emotional shifts. But in lived experience, it can mean losing confidence mid-sermon when your mind goes blank, or feeling too exhausted to step up to lead worship after a sleepless night.

Research shows nearly 60 per cent of women say their symptoms negatively affect their working life — some reduce their hours or even step out of leadership altogether. Churches, with structures that resemble workplaces, are no different. If we don’t address this, we risk losing the gifts and voices of women when the Church needs them most.

Menopausal challenges in church life

Every woman’s journey is unique, but the challenges often spill over into ministry and community life. These include:

hot flushes striking in the middle of a service.

poor sleep leaving women depleted before the day has even begun.

brain fog making it hard to recall names or

Bible passages.

emotional changes that can make ordinary responsibilities feel overwhelming.

Left unsupported, menopause becomes an invisible barrier. But it doesn’t need to be.

How churches can make a difference

As a doctor, I can prescribe treatments and explore options like HRT, nutrition or lifestyle changes. But as a Christian, I also know healing and wholeness are sustained in community. Churches can take simple, powerful steps.

Policies that matter Explicitly include menopause in wellbeing and safeguarding conversations.

Practical adjustments Provide flexible meeting times, access to fans or breakout spaces.

Culture change Train leaders, open up conversations and dismantle stigma.

This isn’t about special treatment. It’s about honouring women as whole people and recognising that their continued presence in leadership enriches the entire church body.

A threshold, not an ending

Too often, menopause is framed as a decline. But what if we reclaimed it as a threshold? A passage into a season of renewed influence, creativity and mentoring?

At Maldod Life, I encourage women to see this stage as a recalibration — not of losing their value, but of discovering new rhythms of health and identity. Yes, the physical symptoms are real and can be hard. However, alongside medicine and lifestyle support, spiritual practices such as prayer, rest and shared storytelling can be powerful medicine for the soul.

And the Bible offers us a counter-story to cultural messages that prize only youth and productivity. Proverbs 31:25 says: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” Strength and dignity aren’t dependent on oestrogen levels. They are God’s gifts, present in every season of life.

The Church has an extraordinary opportunity here. By breaking the silence on menopause, we don’t just support women — we create a healthier, more compassionate culture for everyone.

For women, it means speaking up sooner, seeking help and sharing experiences.

For church families, it means listening, learning and offering practical compassion.

For leaders, it means recognising the immense value of women in midlife and beyond, and refusing to let menopause push them to the margins.

Menopause is not the end of calling or contribution. It is another chapter in the story of discipleship and leadership. With understanding and support, women can continue to flourish in ministry, modelling resilience, wisdom and grace for generations coming after them.

Top tips for navigating menopause at church

For individuals

Keep cool Wear layers, have water handy and use a hand-held fan if possible.

Beat brain fog Rely on lists, reminders and calendar alerts — they’re your friends.

Prioritise rest Short breaks during the day and a good bedtime routine support energy.

Speak up If you feel able, talk with your church leaders. 

Seek support Check in with your GP about HRT or other treatments, and keep active with movement, nutrition and stress management.

For churches 

Policy matters Consider menopause in plans

and policies.

Practical steps Provide access to fans and

quiet spaces, making it easy for women to step

out of a service.

Change the culture Normalise conversations and train church leaders to understand the impact of menopause on their congregation.