Why We Need to Watch Menopause Documentaries with a Critical Eye
Dr. Jen Gunter's Must-Read Review of The Menopause Documentary Everyone's Talking About
There is a new movie out about the menopause experience. While I haven't seen PBS's 'The M Factor' yet, I had mixed feelings about its potential impact when I first heard of it. On one hand, we desperately need more open dialogue about menopause - women's experiences have been historically dismissed or minimized, and many struggle to find proper support and understanding has been inadequate, at best.
On the other hand, there is SO much misinformation coming from all levels - from personal health and wellness coaches to medical professionals, and everything in between. As those of us in the nutrition and fitness world can attest to, this industry's "documentaries" are rarely correct and often just infomercials to sell us on a certain approach. They cherry-pick the information but do not showcase all sides and never reference their statements to solid science. I was cautiously optimistic about seeing the guests.
Enter in... Dr. Jen Gunter and her thoughtful review! I was hoping she would review the movie, and if you plan on seeing it, please peruse her review. This way, you can get the best information out of it while keeping in mind some of the potential issues. As someone in my circle - I want you to have the latest information!
While the film does important work bringing attention to menopause experiences and health disparities, it's crucial we look carefully at how medical information is presented and promoted.
A few important red flags Dr. Gunter identified:
~The documentary was marketed as having "CME accreditation" (continuing medical education credits) when actually only watching the film PLUS a separate webinar would qualify. This type of misleading marketing doesn't help build trust.
~Several experts featured in the film have financial interests in supplement companies - yet these conflicts weren't disclosed. When someone recommends "supplements" while selling them, we need that context.
~Some claims about hormone therapy for heart disease and dementia prevention directly contradict current medical society guidelines. Just because something sounds good on social media doesn't make it evidence-based medicine.
And more, so don't miss it!
The lesson here isn't to dismiss documentaries, but to watch them thoughtfully while cross-checking claims against trusted medical guidelines and expert consensus. Personal stories matter immensely in understanding lived experiences - but medical recommendations need to be backed by solid science, not anecdotes or social media popularity... and discussed with your medical doctor for what is right for YOU.
We deserve accurate, evidence-based information about menopause care. Let's keep having these important conversations while being smart consumers of medical content, whether it comes via documentary, social media, or elsewhere. Science matters!!
For reliable menopause info, check out guidelines from @menopause_society and evidence-based practitioners like @DrJenGunter who consistently prioritize facts over followers! Boo-ya!
