Nairobi, May 5 -- I remember watching my mother struggle through sudden waves of heat, bouts of forgetfulness, and excessive sweating even while doing something as simple as washing dishes on a cold day. At the time, it felt confusing, almost inexplicable.

On another visit to the hospital, a doctor advised her to lose weight. She was in her early 90s and had gained significant weight, something he said was common for women at her stage of life. But these changes often begin much earlier.

Unfamiliar discovery

For many women in their 40s, the body starts shifting in unexpected ways, and few are ever prepared for it. Each day can feel like a new, unfamiliar discovery.

Dr Maina Muriithi, an obstetrician-gynaecologist at Aga Khan Universit...