Michelle Obama recently shared candid insights about experiencing menopause while serving as First Lady, revealing the intense hot flashes she endured during critical public appearances.
At 61 years old, the author opened up on the latest episode of her IMO podcast about the physical challenges she faced as her body transitioned. She noted that the onset of menopausal symptoms began during President Barack Obama’s initial term in office.
“It hit me suddenly,” Michelle recalled. “One morning I woke up drenched in heat, experiencing severe hot flashes and sweating. I thought, what is happening to me? I felt completely changed overnight.”
Instead of immediately seeking medical advice, she admitted to reassuring herself, “I can handle this,” pushing through the discomfort on her own.
Balancing the demanding role of First Lady with the unpredictable nature of hot flashes proved to be a significant struggle. Michelle described the pressure of maintaining composure during speeches, traveling on planes, and attending formal events while battling these symptoms.
“There was one trip where I experienced nearly 40 hot flashes,” she shared. “I thought, I can’t keep living like this. Getting off a plane soaked in sweat, having to change clothes and redo my hair between engagements-it was overwhelming.”
Michelle even joked about the misconception that her sweating might be mistaken for nervousness or dishonesty during speeches. She vividly described the sensation: “It feels like a furnace ignites inside you. Your organs feel like burning embers, and then suddenly you’re drenched, clothes soaked through, needing to change immediately.”
Ultimately, hormone replacement therapy provided her with significant relief, helping her manage the symptoms more effectively.
She emphasized the importance of openly discussing menopause, noting that many women are unaware of what their bodies are undergoing during this phase. “We need to bring these symptoms into the conversation because so many women don’t recognize what’s happening to them,” Michelle stressed.
Encouraging a positive outlook, she urged women to embrace this natural transition rather than view it negatively. “Change is part of growth, and that’s something to celebrate. If we’re fortunate enough to experience this stage, it’s a blessing, not a burden. I’m learning to focus on the positives and not dwell on what I might have missed because there’s still so much ahead.”
Addressing rumors about her personal life, Michelle expressed no fear of aging, describing her 60s as the most fulfilling period of her life. “This is truly the best chapter for me. I wouldn’t trade it for being 20 again-not for anything. There’s a unique freedom that comes with this stage,” she said with a smile.
Looking ahead, she shared her aspirations for the decades to come: “I’m already thinking about my 70s and 80s. I want to continue living fully and embracing life’s opportunities well into my later years.”
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