From PMDD to Menopause: Lived Experiences

In this candid conversation, Ani Mouradyan, an advocate of women's health and a talent investor at Entrepreneur First, shares her journey of navigating life with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and her passion to bring better solutions for menopause. Through an open and honest discussion, Ani sheds light on the complexities of these life stages and the importance of early intervention, research, and support systems. Her personal experiences, combined with her professional insights, are shaping the future of women’s health, and her story is one that resonates deeply with many.

A Personal Journey: PMDD and Menopause

Ani begins by sharing her personal experience with PMDD, a condition that often goes unrecognized but is debilitating. Growing up, she was keenly aware of her body’s changes, but it wasn’t until later that she fully understood what PMDD was. This awareness came after speaking with her mother, who was a key figure in her understanding of both physical and emotional changes. Ani’s mother, despite not experiencing the same severity of symptoms, provided her with the emotional support and insight that Ani needed to grasp what was happening to her body.

As Ani reflects on her mother's experience with menopause, she realizes the importance of preparing early for such phases. She noted, "If I wait until I'm close to that age, I might not have the energy or the capacity to think about it, especially when balancing kids, family, and other responsibilities." This thought process led Ani to take action now, rather than wait until menopause was closer. “I want to start now because even if I have 20 years to prepare, I can make a meaningful difference,” Ani explained.

The Need for Awareness and Preparation

Ani’s perspective is refreshing, especially in a world where many women only address menopause and its related issues later in life. "Building solutions for menopause and PMDD needs to start now," she says, emphasizing the importance of creating innovative, technologically advanced solutions for these life stages. Ani believes that the lack of awareness and early education about menopause and PMDD often results in feelings of confusion and isolation for women. If these challenges are not discussed openly and addressed proactively, the impact on mental health and overall well-being can be severe.

Her own experience with PMDD shaped her desire to not only support others but to build a future where solutions are already in place when women need them most. She mentions, “I’m 26 now, and the average age for menopause is in the early 50s, but it can happen earlier or later. We need to develop tools and support systems now so that women have everything they need as they transition through this phase.”

Bridging Scientific Research with Personal Wisdom

Ani’s journey is not just about understanding the physical aspects of menopause and PMDD, but also about how scientific research can be combined with personal wisdom. Her background in neuroscience gives her a unique perspective on the impact of hormonal changes on brain function. One fascinating aspect that Ani explores is the role of estrogen in brain health.

As estrogen levels drop, particularly during menopause, Ani discusses how estrogen receptors in the brain increase. This decline in estrogen has been linked to cognitive issues, including memory lapses, brain fog, and even an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Ani highlights the work of Dr. Lisa Mosconi, a renowned neuroscientist who has studied the effects of menopause on the brain. Dr. Mosconi’s research suggests that estrogen has protective properties against dementia, and as levels decrease, women are more vulnerable to conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Cognitive Health: A New Frontier in Women’s Health

What truly sets Ani apart is her forward-thinking approach to women’s cognitive health. Ani believes that there needs to be a greater focus on the mental and cognitive aspects of menopause. As she explains, “Many women experience significant brain fog during perimenopause and menopause, yet it's rarely discussed as a serious symptom.” These cognitive challenges, including memory lapses and mood swings, can cause immense frustration. Ani brings attention to how these symptoms, often dismissed as normal, can be better managed with the right tools and support systems.

“We need to shift the conversation. It’s not just about surviving menopause—it's about thriving,” Ani stresses. She points out that early intervention, combined with cognitive exercises, lifestyle changes, and innovative technologies, could make a world of difference for women as they navigate this phase of life.

Mental Health and Men: A Shared Struggle

While Ani is deeply focused on women’s health, she also acknowledges the importance of mental health for everyone, regardless of gender. In the conversation, she touches on the mental health struggles that men face, especially as they grow older. “There are so many aspects of mental health that go unnoticed for both men and women, and I think the focus should be on understanding each other’s experiences better,” Ani shares. She believes that by creating an open dialogue about mental health, there will be more understanding, compassion, and actionable solutions for everyone.

The Future of Women's Health: A Call to Action

Ani's vision for the future is one where women’s health, especially reproductive and mental health, is treated with the attention and respect it deserves. She wants to see a world where women feel empowered to take control of their health, where menopause is no longer a taboo topic, and where PMDD is recognized and treated as the serious condition it is. “Our bodies carry so much wisdom. It’s time we listen to it more closely,” Ani says, underscoring the importance of blending scientific research with a deeper appreciation for the experiences women go through.

As she concludes, Ani emphasizes that while menopause and PMDD are undoubtedly challenging, they are also powerful phases of growth and transformation. With the right support, education, and innovations, the future of women’s health looks brighter than ever.

Watch the full conversation with Ani Mouradyan here:
https://youtu.be/9AekwOOAFMo?feature=shared