Menopause, a problem shared

NICOLA Sturgeon is far from my favourite chocolate in the box when it comes to politics, but I have always admired the way she speaks out about personal issues, knowing full well that her words carry weight and reduce stigma. In 2016, she talked bravely and movingly about her miscarriage. this week, she revealed she is ‘in the foothills’ of menopause, has issues with sleep and fears getting hot flushes in the middle of First Minister’s Questions. these are concerns shared by many women. No matter the political gulf, it’s nice to know there is solidarity, and in talking openly of those experiences, a little less shame.