When Julie Parana had a hysterectomy at 42, she expected relief from years of pain—which she got. What she did not expect was the immediate launch into menopause a decade earlier than planned. Even with her ovaries intact, Julie found herself dealing with symptoms like brain fog, forgetfulness, and sleep struggles that were affecting her work. But, it wasn’t until the hot flashes showed up that she connected the dots.

In this episode, Julie shares how she pieced together the truth, why most doctors aren’t trained to recognize or treat menopause effectively, and how the experience inspired her to become The Menopause Occupational Therapist — helping women and employers navigate this transition with confidence.

We cover:

✔️How early menopause can happen after a hysterectomy—even when your ovaries are left intact

✔️The surprising gaps in menopause education for healthcare providers

✔️What to do when your menopause symptoms are affecting your work

✔️Why nervous system regulation is essential for symptom relief and long-term health

Connect with Julie:

➡️ themenopauseot.com

➡️ Instagram | YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

01:24 Listener Shout Out

02:49 Julie's Menopause Story

07:51 Why Julie Educated Herself About Menopause

14:27 Julie's Advice for Those Having Surgery

19:54 Navigating Work During Menopause

24:07 How to Discuss Menopause with Your Boss

29:19 Supporting Women in the Workplace

36:51 What Julie Wishes Everyone Knew About Menopause

37:58 Key Takeaways

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