Whispered Voices: Narrating Menopause in a Conservative Tribal Community in Nagaland*

Menopause is an under-discussed and overlooked topic among the rural Chakhesang community of Phek District, Nagaland. Drawing from fieldwork observations, this narrative highlights the lived experiences of Chakhesang women and the loud silence surrounding menopause that persists within this tribal context. Many women in the community are shy and hesitant to voice their concerns and discomfort, and the perception of menopause as a natural biological process of ageing adds to the lack of open dialogue, awareness, and medical attention. This narrative also underscores the importance of social support given to women during this stage to improve their quality of life. A significant gap exists in addressing midlife health, which stems from the absence of culturally appropriate awareness, education, and healthcare support. This work calls for inclusive policy-making that acknowledges and recognizes midlife as a crucial stage in a woman’s life because every woman deserves to be heard, supported, and cared for.