From unexpected symptoms to workplace bias, Burke explains what helped her regain control and what women need to know.
Brooke Burke says that most women have never heard of menopause:
“That could be sexy.”
But reality wasn’t initially empowering for the TV host and health expert. Like millions of women, the symptoms appeared quietly and quickly became impossible to ignore.
“I started noticing brain fog, fatigue, trouble sleeping…and I thought, Is this just my 40s?? ” Burke told USA TODAY Shopping. This is a question many women have. Often before we realize that hormonal changes may be part of the answer. Explore what treatment options really are.
For many women, the actual understanding behind these symptoms often begins with: Learn how hormone levels change and what options you have.
Burke said the biggest challenge wasn’t just the symptoms, but the silence. “We didn’t have the language to express it. There was a little shame, a little mystery…people weren’t talking about it.” Until now.
Hidden career implications
A new survey of more than 1,000 American women reveals just how widespread the problem is.
- Nearly one in five women say they have quit their job or retired early because of menopausal symptoms.
- 62% say their symptoms have affected their performance or career growth
- Symptoms cost an estimated $5.4 billion in lost productivity each year
View menopause leave report
Now she’s using her platform to speak out and support a new menopause leave initiative that highlights how much women struggle at work.
Her menopausal symptoms were varied and often ignored, so what was it that annoyed her the most? She was told it was normal.
“When women think something is ‘normal’, they just deal with it,” she explains. “I don’t believe that. There’s a lot we can do.”
turning point
Burke believes that going deeper into hormone testing and treatment was the big change that helped her regain control. “As soon as I started HRT, it was a big change for me,” she says. “It helped me understand what was going on in my body.”
Her advice is simple but powerful.
“Be a detective of your own body.”
Rather than guessing, Burke focuses on understanding what your body actually needs, from hormone levels to recovery to stress.
Want to understand what’s happening inside your body? Start with at-home hormone testing to measure key biomarkers and connect with physician-directed care.
See how HRT can help with menopause
What actually helped
While there’s no single solution, Burke says a few basic habits have made the biggest difference.
- strength training: “I’m lifting heavier to protect my muscles, not to gain them.”
- prioritize sleep: “You have to sleep to recover. That’s non-negotiable.”
- low-impact movement: Yoga, walking, and mobility are effective against high-intensity stress.
- Hormone test: “There’s scientific backing for this. No need to guess.”
She also emphasizes listening to her body on a daily basis. “When I wake up, how do I feel? And why? That question changes everything,” she explains.
Let’s start with the essentials for menopausal support.
Start treatment for menopausal disorders
Why conversations at work are important
Ms Burke is also adding her voice to a broader movement to rethink how menopause is treated in the workplace, where symptoms are often ignored.
“We’re taking time off for our mental health,” she says. “Why don’t we support women during menopause?”
Advocates are calling for more flexibility, better policies and open dialogue, especially as women go through what Burke calls “a decade of life.”
If you’re dealing with similar symptoms, starting with data instead of guessing can make a big difference. Explore Hone Health’s menopause support tools and testing options to create a plan that’s right for you.
Test your hormone levels at home. Here’s how it works
What is Menopausal Leave (MTO)?
Proposals for workplace policies that allow women to take flexible and symptom-related time off during menopause, similar to mental health days.
How does menopause affect work performance?
Symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, and insomnia can reduce your productivity, affect your ability to concentrate, and even affect your promotion and earnings.
What are the most common menopause symptoms?
- brain fog
- sleep disorders
- Hot flashes
- fatigue
- weight change
- mood changes
Reduce symptoms of menopause
Is hormone replacement therapy (HRT) safe?
Although HRT is effective for many women, it should always be discussed with your doctor to determine your individual risks and benefits.
How can I test my hormone levels at home?
At-home biomarker tests analyze hormone levels through blood samples and provide physician-reviewed insights.
Get started with testing and support
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