Oprah Winfrey is set to tackle one of the most pivotal yet frequently overlooked subjects concerning women's health: menopause. Her upcoming special, titled An Oprah Winfrey Special: The Menopause Revolution, is scheduled to air on ABC on March 31, 2023, at 10:01 p.m. Eastern. This hour-long program promises to shed light on this inevitable phase of life through the compelling narratives of celebrities and medical professionals alike.
A star-studded lineup will join Winfrey, including Halle Berry, Naomi Watts, and Maria Shriver, all of whom have shared their personal journeys with menopause. Each of these women brings unique perspectives, particularly on issues like misdiagnosis and dealing with painful symptoms. Despite the commonality of menopause, many women find their symptoms confusing and distressing. Winfrey aims to provide clarity and empowerment through insightful conversations and expert advice.
Reflecting on her own experience, Winfrey remarked, "When I was around 48 years old, I thought I was dying and went from doctor to doctor trying to understand why my heart was racing, and did not receive any answers until I picked up a book and read how heart palpitations can be a symptom indicating a change is coming to your body." Through the special, she hopes to inspire other women to take charge of their health.
The show will also feature notable medical experts, including Dr. Mary Claire Haver, an OB-GYN and author of The New Menopause, and Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a neurologist specializing in menopause. Together, they will provide necessary medical background and treatment options, discussing everything from the gold standard treatment of estrogen to common misconceptions about menopause. The special will also highlight the importance of mental health and the overall well-being of women during this life transition.
Alongside these experts, comedian Leanne Morgan will lend her voice to the conversation, sharing her own experiences with perimenopause and menopause. Her humor will break down barriers and provide relatable content, allowing viewers to find camaraderie through shared experiences.
Winfrey emphasizes the transformative potential of this conversation, stating, "This show starts the revolution of answers for millions of women throughout this country. We discuss what you need to know to best advocate for yourself when itcomes to mental health, sleep, weight, sex, and your brain so we canultimately see how freeing menopause can be in your life, with the best yet to come." This emphasis on advocacy serves as the backbone of the special, encouraging viewers to become informed and proactive about their health.
The Menopause Revolution is not just another documentary; it's Winfrey's third special for ABC this year, following programs on obesity and artificial intelligence. Each special underlines her commitment to spotlighting topics often shrouded in stigma and misconception.
Following its initial broadcast, An Oprah Winfrey Special: The Menopause Revolution will be available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu the next day. This accessibility ensures the conversation surrounding menopause will continue beyond the television screen, allowing women to revisit the insights shared at their convenience.
For those eager to gain insight, share stories, or learn about managing menopause, this special promises to be not just educational but life-affirming. With the combination of Winfrey's heartfelt approach and the wealth of knowledge shared by her guests, viewers can anticipate a conversation about menopause that's long overdue.