Highlights of Dr. Mary Clair Haver’s menopause education discussion
On March 20, 2025, Mohawk College’s Allied Health department hosted women’s health trailblazer, Dr. Mary Claire Haver for a discussion on menopause. Through her work, Dr. Haver has been a pivotal advocate for menopause education, growing a following of over 2.5 million on social media. When Professor Dr. Theresia Arnott-Candy learned Dr. Haver offered free educational sessions for colleges, she jumped at the opportunity to bring her as a speaker for both students and employees.
Menopause education
In her work, Theresia has had many patients who were perimenopausal or menopausal struggling with symptoms that Dr. Haver has since clarified are due to hormonal changes. “In my role as a professor in the massage therapy program, I realized that our curriculum needed to include more menopause education. By doing so, we can better equip our students to support clients during this critical transition in their lives,” says Theresia.
Over 51% of our population will experience menopause in their lifetime, making menopause education essential. The transition can be challenging, as many women face long-lasting effects on their health and well-being. According to the Menopause Foundation of Canada’s 2023 report, unmanaged menopause symptoms cost the economy an estimated $3.5 billion annually, with one in ten women leaving the workforce early due to symptoms.
“Educating students and employees about menopause not only raises awareness but also fosters empathy,” says Theresia. “It equips future healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to support patients and clients during this significant transition, ultimately creating a more informed and compassionate community.”
Misconceptions of menopause
A prevalent misconception is that menopause symptoms are limited to hot flashes and weight gain. In reality, there are over 30 recognized symptoms of menopause. Furthermore, many people are unaware of the timing of menopause. Perimenopause can begin up to ten years prior to menopause, which is clinically defined as a one-day event when the ovaries cease to function. It’s important to note that menopause is diagnosed retrospectively, one year after menstrual periods have stopped, and changes can begin as early as a person’s mid-thirties.
Fostering community
The session with Dr. Haver was incredibly well-received by faculty and staff, sparking interest in establishing a menopause community program or book club.
Additionally, Theresia and Associate Dean of Allied Health, Dr. Anne-Marie DePape are discussing ways to create interprofessional opportunities to enhance student learning and skill development across programs and employee groups.
If you’re interested in joining a menopause community group at Mohawk College, please contact Theresia by email at theresia.arnott-candy@mohawkcollege.ca.
If you missed Dr. Mary Claire Haver’s talk you can watch the recording via Zoom. Passcode: F2^U@.j*