Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav
Community /

Women's Issues Forum

Info
1,738 Friends
Filter by Topic
Aging Announcements & Events Body Image & Self-Esteem Coping with Violence against Women Discussions Introduce Yourself Menopause and Perimenopause Reproductive Health Safety & Empowerment
Community calendar
Group chat
Ask questions, get support and make friends
Find a group chat
My communities
Considering Therapy?
Talk to an expert therapist
New subscribers
Create a New Thread
Gif Photo Link
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
Women's Issues Community Taglist! Stay Updated
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 June 2nd
...See more The Women's Issues Community Tag List is a way to stay connected with new discussions, resources, and posts shared by our forum supporters. By joining the tag list, you’ll receive notifications when important updates are posted (up to 4 times a week). These updates can include everything from wellness tips and discussions to helpful resources that align with the community’s focus on women’s issues. If you'd like to be added or removed from the tag list, simply leave a comment below. Being part of the tag list helps you stay engaged and ensures you don’t miss out on opportunities to connect and share your thoughts! ------------------------- Current taglist - updated by Mya on 17th October @adventurousBranch3786 @ashleybell415 @ASPIRINGCOUNSELOR @Aylathegreat @azuladragon34 @blxepxndx @calmmoon2104 @Callmetanya5 @creativeTalker5179 @DaisyBeeBlooming @daydreammemories @decisivePapaya238 @Eddy94 @emotionalkitty101 @fluffypickles123 @GentleLily3 @gentleWater9634 @GoldenRuleJG @halcyonCloud2036 @HarmonyBlossom @iloveyouxx @Jaeteuk @janiewanie423 @K87 @Kala @KarmaTheRascal @KaylaMaulfair @KindnessMatters2020 @lalabrowni @listenwithempathy @LittleSunshine2036 @littleLemon4973 @LovingPeacefulHeart @MoreThanJustMe @Mya000 @Noorahmed89 @OptimisticMoon1124 @PFord79 @pioneeringShade8010 @purpleTree4652 @RainbowRosie @RobinNew @shyMoon8539 @sincereSkies9563 @SirenOfSerenity @sky2Ocean20 @Smilintru67 @softSummer7903 @SomeHope2022 @SoulfullyAButterfly @tealPark1424 @TheCucumberry @trueconfidant123 @victoriousLily5344 @woMango9097 @zaramerch
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
International Women’s Day 2026: Give to Gain
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 March 8th
...See more This year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Give to Gain,” a campaign that emphasizes the power of reciprocity and support. The idea is simple but powerful: when we give encouragement, empathy, and help to others, we often gain connection, strength, and growth ourselves. On 7 Cups, this happens every day. A supportive reply, a kind message, or simply listening without judgment can make someone feel less alone. Even small acts of care can create ripple effects across the community. The Give to Gain theme reminds us that support is not one-sided. When we show up for others, we also gain: * A sense of purpose * Stronger connections with others * New perspectives and shared wisdom * A more compassionate community You don’t need perfect advice to help someone. Often, being present, listening, and showing kindness is more than enough. Let’s reflect together: 1) What is one small way you’ve given support to someone recently? 2) What did you gain from that experience? 3) What is one way you have supported another woman - or been supported by one - that made a real difference in your life? Thank you for being part of a community where every act of support matters. When we give to each other, we all grow stronger together. 
Mya000 profile picture
Weekly Women’s Circles Sessions 💬
by Mya000
Last post
 September 29th, 2025
...See more Join us for a space to connect, share, and support each other ✨ 🗓️ When: Every Saturday at 12 PM EST 📍 Where: In the Adult Support Session room This is an open space for women to come together, share their experiences, and support one another. Whether you’re looking for a sense of belonging, a place to voice your thoughts, or just a calm moment of connection, this circle is for you. What to expect: 💛 A safe, welcoming environment where all voices are valued. 💛 Weekly topics focusing on women’s issues and challenges. 💛 Guided conversations facilitated by thoughtful questions. 💛 A chance to connect with like-minded women and build genuine support networks. Each week, we’ll explore a different theme. Come as you are, whether you want to share or just listen, you are warmly welcomed here. We hope to see you there, and feel free to invite others who might benefit from this space! Let’s create a community where every woman feels supported and heard.  Hosted by @ShadowFaerie and @Mya000
snugglyPomegranate9534 profile picture
Menopause weight
by snugglyPomegranate9534
Last post
 September 12th
...See more Hi everyone new on here, I am in menopause, sick of hot flushes, and the weight round my tummy.  Anyone got any ideas how to get rid of this please its getting me down now.
soulsings profile picture
Menopause and Perimenopause
by soulsings
Last post
 June 25th
...See more By popular request there is now a forum for women's topics like menopause and perimenopause. Please feel free to start chatting in this thread or create your own.
TheJeff profile picture
Husbands learning & supporting a Menopausal wife
by TheJeff
Last post
 December 31st, 2025
...See more I would love to find support and discussion for husbands that are learning about menopause. Learning how to adapt and understand the menopause journey. Wives are not alone in this and as a loving husband I want to understand what role I can take. I would also like support for the struggles I encounter as the partner of a menopausal wife.
adventurousBranch3786 profile picture
osteoporosis
by adventurousBranch3786
Last post
 July 29th, 2025
...See more Anyone else here with osteoporosis? Is there anything that helps?
Mya000 profile picture
Understanding Menopause: Let's Navigate This Journey Together!
by Mya000
Last post
 July 29th, 2025
...See more Hello wonderful ladies of the Women's Issues Community! Today, we're diving into a topic that affects us at some point in our lives – menopause. It's a natural and inevitable phase, yet it can be accompanied by various physical and emotional changes. Let's explore this journey together, armed with scientific resources, facts, and open-minded discussions in the comments section. 🔍 Exploring the Menopausal Transition Menopause signifies a pivotal phase in a woman's life, marking the permanent cessation of menstruation. Typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age hovering around 50, menopause is a natural process that unfolds when the ovaries cease their hormonal secretion of estrogen and progesterone, consequently halting the monthly ovulation cycle. The criterion for defining menopause is met when a year has passed without menstruation. The experiences linked to menopause can be broadly categorized into two realms: — Symptoms During Menopause: Menopause can usher in a range of symptoms, encompassing hot flashes, insomnia, fatigue, irritability, and more. These manifestations stem from the hormonal fluctuations arising from the cessation of ovarian function. These symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals. We will delve deeper into these as we proceed. — Increased Risk of Certain Diseases: Beyond the symptomatic challenges, menopause also ushers in an elevated risk of certain conditions, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. 💡 Understanding the Onset of Menopause: At birth, each girl carries a finite reserve of ovarian follicles. Throughout her reproductive years, spanning from puberty to menopause, a woman's body undergoes menstrual cycles in which the potential for conception exists. This menstrual cycle is divided into two phases, separated by ovulation: During the follicular phase, the body prepares for ovulation. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates ovarian follicles, facilitating the maturation of an egg. Concurrently, the follicles release estrogen, which thickens the uterine lining and affects cervical mucus consistency. Ovulation is triggered by heightened levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), influenced by estrogen. This surge prompts the release of the mature egg as the follicle ruptures. Subsequently, the luteal phase bridges ovulation to the onset of menstruation. The follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, producing progesterone to bolster the uterine lining for possible implantation. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses, causing a decrease in progesterone levels. This drop triggers the shedding of the uterine lining, initiating a new cycle. This cyclical pattern continues until the reserve of ovarian follicles is depleted. With no follicles remaining, ovulation ceases, and the production of progesterone and estrogen declines, culminating in the establishment of menopause. Premenopause is characterized by dwindling progesterone levels, while the cessation of estrogen production marks the onset of menopause. 🩺 Symptoms During Menopause: Menopause often accompanies climacteric symptoms that vary in intensity due to hormonal changes tied to ovarian function cessation. These symptoms, arising from estrogen and progesterone deficiencies, are not experienced universally and include: — Hot Flashes or Vasomotor Symptoms: These symptoms manifest as intermittent shivers, sudden intense heat rising from the chest to the face and neck, palpitations, excessive sweating, and chills. Their duration is typically short-lived, though they can be frequent and disrupt sleep. — Night Sweats: These can occur independently of hot flashes, leading to disrupted sleep due to excessive sweating. — Vulvovaginal Dryness: Gradual vaginal dryness results from declining female hormones and can lead to vaginitis. — Urinary Issues: Increased susceptibility to urinary infections, frequent urination, and leakage can arise. While some climacteric symptoms may be transient, others, like urinary issues, persist throughout menopause. — Common Post-Menopausal Symptoms: Post-menopausal women frequently report various symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, anxiety, and joint pains. 🕒 Understanding Early Menopause: Early menopause, occurring before the age of 40, can be spontaneous (genetic) or induced by factors like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. In such cases, hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed until the age of 50 to mitigate potential complications. 📚 Backing Our Discussion with Scientific Resources As we delve into this topic, let's ensure that our knowledge is backed by reputable scientific resources. I encourage everyone to share articles, studies, and research papers that offer insights into menopause and related health issues. Let's empower each other with reliable information! 🗣️Join the Discussion: Sharing Our Experiences and Support Let's create an open and supportive environment in the comments section. Feel free to share your menopause experiences, the challenges you've faced, and the coping strategies that have helped you. Whether you're approaching, experiencing, or have already passed through menopause, your wisdom and insights hold great value. If you have questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask. Together, we'll provide answers and mutual support during this transformative phase. Menopause marks a significant milestone in a woman's life, and by uniting as a community, we can navigate this journey more smoothly. Important note: I have done my best to compose this post based on reliable sources, but I am not a healthcare professional, and there might be errors in this content. If you have health-related questions, it is crucial to consult a licensed healthcare professional who can provide guidance. I also encourage you to refer to multiple scientific sources when seeking information on a subject.
trueconfidant123 profile picture
Navigating Menopause: Insights into Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Care
by trueconfidant123
Last post
 May 26th, 2025
...See more About Menopause Menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years, typically occurring between ages 45-55 due to reduced ovarian function and lower estrogen levels. The transition, known as perimenopause, begins with changes in the menstrual cycle and can last several years, impacting overall well-being. Both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments are available to manage symptoms, and menopause may also result from medical or surgical interventions. Causes, Timing, and Induced Factors Menopause is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without menstruation, generally between ages 45-55, but it can occur earlier due to genetic, demographic, or health factors. Premature menopause may arise from chromosomal abnormalities or autoimmune disorders. It can also be induced by surgeries (e.g., ovary removal) or medical treatments (e.g., chemotherapy). Women who undergo certain surgeries or medications may still experience menopausal symptoms. Symptoms and Management Hormonal changes during menopause affect physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. Common symptoms include: * Hot flashes * Night sweats * Irregular periods * Vaginal dryness * Sleep disturbances * Mood changes There is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis due to reduced estrogen levels. Both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments can help manage these symptoms. Pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause, so contraception is recommended until 12 months after the last period. Post-menopause, women remain at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Menopause as a Life Transition Menopause is a significant life stage influenced by health, reproductive history, lifestyle, and cultural factors. The symptoms of perimenopause and post-menopause can impact personal and professional life, making care essential for healthy aging. With the global population of postmenopausal women growing, this period presents an opportunity for reassessing health, lifestyle, and goals. Women today are living longer, with those aged 60 in 2019 expected to live an additional 21 years on average. Challenges in Menopause Care Perimenopausal women often face challenges in accessing quality health services and menopause-related information. The topic is frequently undiscussed in families, communities, workplaces, and healthcare settings. Many women may not recognize their symptoms as related to menopause, and embarrassment can prevent them from seeking help. Healthcare providers may lack specific training on menopause, and issues like vaginal dryness and STI risks are often overlooked. Many governments do not adequately fund menopause-related services, which are often deprioritized in favor of other health concerns. Prompts for the Community * What’s one thing you wish more people understood about menopause? * How has menopause affected your life, and what strategies have helped you manage it? * What advice would you give to someone starting their menopause journey? Feel free to answer all or any questions you would like to. We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your voice can help break the silence and support others facing similar challenges. For further support, consider consulting a healthcare provider if you're concerned about menopause symptoms or how they affect your well-being, and explore support groups and resources dedicated to helping women navigate this life transition. ------------------------- Resources and Further Reading WHO on Menopause [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/menopause] (source for the above content) The Menopause Society [https://menopause.org/] Menopause: What It Is, Age, Stages, Signs & Side Effects [https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21841-menopause] Everything You Should Know About Menopause [https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause] -------------------------
Mya000 profile picture
Understanding and Supporting Each Other Through Menopause 💜
by Mya000
Last post
 March 21st, 2025
...See more Hello everyone, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the discussion we had during our Women’s Circle session on Menopause.  Growing up, many of us didn’t hear much about menopause, or it was framed negatively—something to fear, to avoid talking about, or even to joke about. What we learned from each other was how much of an impact early conversations—or the lack of them—can have on our perceptions. We discussed how menopause affects us individually and the women around us. For those who have already experienced it, the journey can be physical, emotional, and psychological.  Menopause is often portrayed as something negative or something that women have to endure in silence. It’s crucial for women of all ages to understand menopause, not just for our own health, but to be able to offer better support to others.  This is one of the most important points we discussed. Menopause can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. By offering emotional support, practical tips, and simply listening, we can help ease the transition for each other. Whether it’s talking through the tough days or sharing helpful strategies, every bit of support makes a difference. Whether you are currently going through menopause, are preparing for it, or simply want to support the women in your life, being informed is key. Let’s keep the conversation going here on the forum! Share your thoughts, experiences, or ask any questions you might have in the comment below! Take care, and I look forward to hearing from you all! ------------------------- If you missed the session or want to join future discussions, feel free to connect with us through the Women's Issues Community Forum [https://www.7cups.com/forum/women/].
tbmicban12 profile picture
Perimenopause
by tbmicban12
Last post
 January 21st, 2025
...See more I'm 51 does anyone feel like they're losing their mind?. Or feel like they don't like the changes that your body has taken?
allnaturalSky4753 profile picture
Perimenopause
by allnaturalSky4753
Last post
 January 21st, 2025
...See more Is there any information on perimenopause that someone can share with me? Is this diagnosis given by a gynecologist? What are some symptoms that other women are going through?
SeekForgiveness730 profile picture
Women’s change of life
by SeekForgiveness730
Last post
 September 10th, 2024
...See more I’m 52, still having my periods, but, I started having hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, night sweats… etc etc a year or two ago. I’ve started hormones and noticed many “symptoms” coming back. My doc has upped the hormones. My thing is… how do I stop from feeling like I’m going crazy? It’s overwhelming. i call this stage in my life UNPUBERTY. All the hormonal discrepancies and highs and lows of a teen but in reverse. My emotions become overwhelming and if feel intolerant.  I’m having a hard time. anyone? 
GeorgiaFrazier profile picture
The warnings of menopause
by GeorgiaFrazier
Last post
 July 30th, 2024
...See more In the months or years leading up to menopause (perimenopause), you might experience these signs and symptoms: * Irregular periods * Vaginal dryness * Hot flashes * Chills * Night sweats * Sleep problems * Mood changes * Weight gain and slowed metabolism * Thinning hair and dry skin * Loss of breast fullness
selfdisciplinedPenny281 profile picture
Am I just depressed or is it menopause?
by selfdisciplinedPenny281
Last post
 June 12th, 2024
...See more I've been in menopause for a few years now.  For most of my life I have struggled with depression and been diagnosed multiple times with ADHD and dysthymia.  Once I hit menopause, I found other women I knew were experiencing depression, but they said it was depression caused by menopause. For the past few years I've had a much harder time dealing with my depression.  I was in outpatient therapy, multiple medications and tons of therapy sessions.  I've gotten better after hitting a real low, but not that much better, I'm still depressed.  I'm starting to get curious how much of my depression might be caused by menopause. Has anyone in the group experienced an onset of depression from menopause?  Or had menopause harmone therapy relieve them of depression symptoms?

About the Women’s Issues Community

Welcome to the Women’s Issues Community — a dedicated space for discussing topics related to women's health, well-being, and experiences. Our goal is to provide a supportive and respectful environment where members can connect, share, and learn from each other.

Weekly Women’s Circle Sessions:

We invite you to join our Women’s Circle sessions every Saturday at 10 AM EST in the Support Session Room on 7 Cups. These one-hour sessions are a supportive space for women to come together, connect, and uplift one another. We discuss various topics that change each week. Whether you want to share, or simply listen, you're welcome to join us just as you are!

How Can You Contribute?

You can make a significant difference in our community by:

  • Responding to Threads: Engage with ongoing discussions by offering your insights or support. Your contributions can help others feel understood and valued.
  • Sharing Personal Experiences: If you’re comfortable, share your own experiences to offer support and solidarity. Your stories can inspire and help others navigate their own journeys.
  • Joining or Initiating Discussions: Feel free to start new discussions on topics relevant to women’s issues or join existing conversations. Your voice and perspectives are important.
  • Becoming a Forum Leader: If you’re passionate about helping others and managing community discussions, consider joining us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information on how to get involved.

Stay Updated:

To keep up with new discussions and updates, you can join our tag list. This will notify you whenever there is a new thread or important update within the community.



Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we can foster a supportive and informative space for all women.


Community Guidelines

Community Guidelines for Women’s Issues Community

Welcome to the Women’s Issues Community! To ensure a respectful and supportive environment for everyone, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Respect and Kindness:
    • Treat all members with respect and kindness. Disagreements are natural, but personal attacks, harassment, or any form of discrimination will not be tolerated.
    • Be considerate of different perspectives and experiences. This community thrives on support and understanding.

  1. Discrimination:
    • Sexism, misogyny, or any form of discrimination is strictly prohibited. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.
    • If you encounter content or behavior that violates this principle, please report it immediately.

  1. Relevance to Women’s Issues:
    • Please keep discussions relevant to women’s issues and topics related to health, well-being, and experiences unique to women.
    • For discussions not related to women’s issues, please use appropriate forums.

  1. Trigger Warnings:
    • Please note "TW" (Trigger Warning) at the beginning of your post if the content may be sensitive or triggering for some members. This helps others prepare for or avoid content that might affect their well-being.
    • Examples of content that may require a trigger warning include discussions on trauma, abuse, or other sensitive subjects.

Thank you for being a part of the Women’s Issues Community. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a supportive environment for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the community leaders. 

Read the 7 Cups Guidelines
Community Resources

Resources

Below are some essential resources related to women’s health, safety, and well-being:

International List of Sexual & Domestic Violence Agencies

Find a comprehensive list of agencies worldwide that provide support for sexual and domestic violence:

Guide Exclusively for Listeners on Sexual Abuse

For in-depth support and information on sexual abuse, explore this specialized guide:

Mental Health Resources

USA Crisis Helplines

Health and Wellness

  • Planned Parenthood: Offers a range of health services and resources for reproductive and sexual health.
  • Women’s Health.gov: Provides information on women’s health topics, including fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Helpful Forum Posts

Explore these informative threads to gain insights and connect with others on important topics:

Feel free to explore these resources for support, information, and assistance. If you have additional resource suggestions or need further help, please contact the community leaders or moderators.