Generally, all religions welcome menopause positively.
Islam
Freedom to perform religious activities due to a lack of menstrual bleeding.
Menopausal women are mentioned in the Quran, Surah An-Nur, Verse 60, as they are free to perform religious responsibilities, for Allah is truly All-Knowing, All-Aware.
“Such elderly women are past the prospect of marriage; there is no blame on them if they lay aside their (outer) garments, provided they make no wanton display of their beauty; but it is best for them to be modest; and Allah is One Who sees and knows all things.” (Quran, An-Nur:60)
Aishah (the Prophet’s wife) once said that when women reached 50 years of age, they would be out of menstrual age and would not be able to deliver babies anymore.
If abnormal bleeding occurs in the perimenopausal period beyond 14 days, women are allowed to perform salat (prayers) and should perform ablution before each salat. Consult a doctor to determine the cause of abnormal bleeding and receive appropriate treatment.
MHT (Menopausal Hormone Therapy) in Islam is permissible. Permission from the husband for MHT is required to avoid suspicion. Transdermal patches used in MHT should be removed before the ritual bath (ghusl) as they prevent water from reaching the skin. Cyclical bleeding during MHT is considered hayd (menstruation), so all rules regarding menstruation apply.
Christianity
The process of menopause is part of God’s plan. Menopause is designed to make postmenopausal women stronger, more assured, and contented. It is a period where they can turn to God and be assured that God will not leave them alone. Married Christian women should communicate with their husbands if they cannot cope with menopausal symptoms. Menopausal women should focus on their overall health, not on body image. Regular check-ups with a doctor and considering hormonal treatment if needed is advisable.
Hinduism
Menopause is celebrated as a period of freedom, experience, and wisdom. Menopausal women are allowed to enter temples and participate in any religious activities and ceremonies, unlike during their menstrual period. MHT is permissible.
Buddhism
Menopause is a new phase of life—the much-awaited one. Women are ‘reborn’ as their spiritual aspect increases and deepens, once the reproductive aspect of their physical body wanes. It is a period to revisit past wounds and parts of their life that were left unattended.