Queen Latifah Says Menopause Is a ‘Scary Thing’ but She Feels ‘In Control’ and ‘Powerful’ (Exclusive)

Queen Latifah Finds Empowerment and Control Amid Menopause

Queen Latifah, the acclaimed actress and rapper, has recently shared her empowering journey through menopause in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. At 55 years old, she reveals that she initially felt shocked upon hearing the word “menopause” from her doctor, but now she describes this phase of her life as powerful. Through her openness, she aims to inspire other women navigating similar changes in their lives.

During the interview, Queen Latifah discussed her experience when she first learned about her menopausal transition during a routine visit to her gynecologist two years ago. Despite feeling relatively normal at the time, her doctor pointed out fluctuations in her hormone levels, indicating the onset of menopause. This revelation caught her by surprise, as she had not previously identified any significant symptoms associated with the transition.

Reflecting on her journey, Latifah acknowledges that discussing menopause can be a daunting and often overlooked topic for many individuals. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the physical changes that come with this natural phase of life. By partnering with WeightWatchers on their new campaign specifically tailored for menopausal women, she aims to provide support and resources to break the stigma surrounding menopause.

In addition to the professional support she receives, Queen Latifah credits her close friends, many of whom have already experienced menopause, for being a source of comfort and guidance. She stresses the significance of focusing on overall wellness to maintain a healthy and vibrant lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of sufficient sleep, regular exercise, and a positive mindset to navigate this stage of life gracefully.

After recently concluding her successful run on the TV series ‘The Equalizer,’ Latifah admits that maintaining a healthy lifestyle remains a continual challenge, but one that she is committed to tackling. Despite the uncertainties that menopause may bring, she remains optimistic about the future and sees each day as an opportunity for growth and learning.

By sharing her personal journey with menopause, Queen Latifah hopes to encourage women to embrace this transformative phase with strength and grace. Her willingness to speak openly about a topic that is often shrouded in silence exemplifies her commitment to empowering women and destigmatizing the conversation around menopause. Through her advocacy and partnership with initiatives like WeightWatchers, she continues to inspire others to take control of their health and well-being during this significant stage of life.