SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - The University of St. Martin (USM) welcomed a packed audience on Thursday evening, October 15, for its public lecture “(Peri)Menopause… Nobody Told Me This!”, held in observance of World Menopause Day.
The well-attended session brought together women from across the community, students, medical and health professionals, herbalists, and other interested members of the public.
Men were also among those in attendance, reinforcing the importance of ensuring that conversations surrounding perimenopause and menopause extend beyond the women directly experiencing them to partners, families, and the wider community.
What began as an informational session quickly developed into an open and engaging conversation about a stage of life that many participants said is still not discussed enough.
Throughout the evening, the panel explored the wide range of physical, hormonal and emotional changes associated with perimenopause and menopause, as well as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), mental health, intimacy, fitness, lifestyle adjustments and natural and herbal approaches.
The panel featured Dr. Laurien Reinders, General Practitioner; Kenan L’Homme, Certified Naturopathic Practitioner and Menopause Coach; and Amy Arrindell, Educator, Counselor, Author and Founder and CEO of Amy Arrindell Knowledge Toolbox.
Each speaker brought a different perspective to the discussion, allowing participants to hear from both conventional and complementary health viewpoints while gaining a broader understanding of the changes that can occur during this stage of life.
The evening was moderated by Khalilah Peters, who guided the discussion, kept the conversation flowing and created space for participants to engage with the panel.
One of the most appreciated aspects of the event was the opportunity for participants to ask questions in different ways. Attendees could submit sensitive questions anonymously, while others chose to speak directly with the panel during the question-and-answer segment. The questions led to candid discussions about subjects that are sometimes considered uncomfortable or taboo, giving participants an opportunity to seek information in a supportive and respectful environment.
Several attendees expressed appreciation for having a space where such topics could be discussed openly. Some shared that hearing the experiences and information presented during the evening helped them better understand changes they had been experiencing themselves.
For some, the realization that others were experiencing similar symptoms provided a sense of reassurance and connection. Participants noted that information shared during the session helped certain experiences “make sense” in ways they had not previously understood.
The discussion also reinforced the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, paying attention to changes in one’s body and seeking appropriate medical or professional guidance when needed.
Speakers emphasized that every person’s experience can be different and that taking an active role in one’s health, asking questions and becoming informed can make navigating this stage of life less confusing and isolating.
For USM, the evening demonstrated the value of creating spaces where education extends beyond the traditional classroom and into conversations that directly affect the health and well-being of the community.
The University extends its appreciation to Dr. Laurien Reinders, Kenan L’Homme and Amy Arrindell for sharing their knowledge and experience and contributing to an informative and engaging evening. USM also thanks Khalilah Peters for skillfully moderating the session and helping create an atmosphere in which participants felt comfortable asking questions and participating in the discussion.
USM further thanks everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the evening. Participants who registered for the event will receive copies of the presentations by email, allowing them to revisit the information shared and continue learning beyond the session.
The strong turnout and level of engagement throughout the evening highlighted a clear interest within the community for continued conversations around women’s health, wellness and the experiences associated with perimenopause and menopause.
USM remains committed to providing a space for education, dialogue and community engagement on issues that matter to the people of St. Martin.
