Menopause – it’s a time when women’s bodies go through significant changes, and not always for the better. From hot flushes to mood swings, it can be a rollercoaster ride that nobody wants to be on. But as they say, if you don’t laugh, you’ll cry – and that’s especially true when it comes to menopause.
Some of the funniest comedians around have tackled the subject of menopause, bringing a little levity to a situation that can otherwise be pretty tough to deal with. Take Ellen DeGeneres, for example. In one of her stand-up routines, she jokes about the various symptoms of menopause, saying that she’s hot and cold at the same time, her memory is shot, and she’s started to grow facial hair. “I’m like a werewolf,” she quips.
Another funny lady who’s had her share of menopause jokes is Joan Rivers. She once said, “I don’t have hot flushes. I have short, private vacations in the tropics.” And when talking about mood swings, she added, “I’m not yelling, I’m just explaining why I’m right and you’re wrong.”
But menopause isn’t just a topic for female comedians – even male comedians have weighed in. Kevin Nealon once joked, “Menopause is nature’s way of telling women to slow down and gradually get used to being grumpy old bastards.” And Jerry Seinfeld has said, “Menopause is when a woman’s body decides it’s had enough of this crap and starts to shut down.”
Of course, there’s nothing funny about the physical and emotional changes that women go through during menopause. But sometimes, a little laughter is the best medicine. As comedian Whoopi Goldberg once said, “If you can’t laugh at yourself, then how can you laugh at anybody else? I think people have to laugh at themselves and see humour in everything. Menopause is just one of those things that you have to laugh at.”
Indeed, laughter can be a powerful tool for coping with menopause. It can help women feel less alone in their experiences and remind them that they’re not the only ones going through this transition. It can also help them release stress and tension, which can in turn improve their overall health and wellbeing.
So, to all the women out there going through menopause – keep laughing. Whether it’s at a comedy show, with your friends, or at yourself, find the humour in the situation. And if you need a little inspiration, just remember the wise words of comedian Rita Rudner: “The only time menopause is good news is when you haven’t had a period in months and you’re not pregnant.”
Menopause may be a difficult time for many women, but with a little humour and a lot of support, it’s possible to make it through. Whether you’re laughing with your favourite comedian or cracking jokes with your friends, remember that laughter truly is the best medicine. So go ahead and embrace your inner Joan Rivers, and let the good times roll!
Written by Mona Hecke
Mona Hecke is a degree qualified Naturopath, nutrition specialist and health and wellness writer.
With over 20 years in the health industry, beginning with a focus on children and families, and a bestselling book ‘The Lunchbox Revolution’, Mona is now empowering women through education and conversation to take action and embrace change. Gut health, mindfulness, nutrition, hormones, and menopause are the topics that women want and need to know to create their healthy future.
Mona holds certifications in Lifestyle Coaching, Kinesiology, holistic herbal medicine, and nutrition.
A recognised leader in the health industry, Mona’s strong social media presence and passion for influencing change will continue to be a catalyst for health reform for the benefit of every Australian.
