Menopause, although it affects every woman, is still a taboo subject in Polish society. Many women avoid talking about it, which leads to a lack of knowledge and understanding. However, in recent years we have observed positive changes in social awareness of menopause.

Menopause as a taboo subject

According to the report “Menopause without taboo” prepared by the Kulczyk Foundation, as many as 93% of Polish women cannot correctly define menopause, and over 70% describe their knowledge of the subject as bad or very bad. In addition, 47% of women believe that menopause is a taboo subject in Poland.

Reasons for the taboo of menopause

• The cult of youth – society often idealizes youth, which causes natural aging processes, such as menopause, to be marginalized.
• Lack of education – insufficient education about women’s health leads to lack of understanding and awareness.
• Stigma – women fear that admitting to menopause may be seen as a sign of weakness or old age.

Changes in social awareness

Despite the persistent taboo, more and more social and educational initiatives are addressing the topic of menopause. Information campaigns such as “Menopause without taboos” aim to increase awareness and openness in conversations on the subject.

Positive changes

• Increase in the number of publications – more and more articles and books address the topic of menopause, providing reliable information.
• Institutional support – some cities, such as Warsaw, are introducing educational programs on menopause.
• Changing perceptions – women are beginning to see menopause as a natural stage of life rather than the end of femininity.

The role of education and communication

Education plays a key role in breaking the taboo surrounding menopause. Introducing menopause-related topics into educational programs and open communication in families and workplaces can significantly improve public awareness.

Summary

Menopause is still a taboo subject in Poland, but we are observing positive changes in social awareness. Through education, awareness campaigns and open communication, women are becoming more knowledgeable and supported in this natural stage of life.

Footnotes

¹ Kulczyk Foundation. (2023). Menopauza bez tabu. [Raport] .
tvn24.pl

² Kulczyk Foundation. (2023). Menopauza bez tabu: pierwsze w Polsce kompleksowe badanie dotyczące menopauzy. .
menopauzabeztabu.org.pl

³ Informator Stolicy. (2025). Czy menopauza jest dziś tematem tabu? .