{
  "id": 17819592,
  "title": "Menopause, marriage and divorce: UAE filmmaker tackles taboo in new documentary",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/02/menopause-marriage-and-divorce-uae-filmmaker-tackles-taboo-in-new",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-02T15:08:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/menopause-marriage-and-divorce-uae-filmmaker-tackles-taboo-in-new-documentary-1.500733045"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "UAE filmmaker Punam Verma is set to release her upcoming documentary, \"Men On Pause,\" which tackles the taboo subject of menopause. The film, premiering on November 6 on YouTube, explores the impact menopause has on women's lives, relationships, and identities. Verma, a TV host, previously made the comedy \"We Need To Talk\" which won the Muhr Awards at the 2012 Dubai International Film Festival.\n\nThe documentary uses humor to address the sensitive topic of menopause, which can last up to 10 years and begins in a woman's 40s. Verma interviewed experts and individuals who have experienced menopause, sharing their stories and symptoms. One of the most significant findings is the link between menopause and divorce, which the film highlights as a critical issue that often goes unaddressed.\n\nThe documentary also delves into the effects of menopause on a woman's career, financial well-being, and physical health. Verma herself experienced some of these symptoms, which initially made her feel stronger by taking charge of her health. Some of the symptoms are so diverse and hormone levels so volatile that they can lead to suicidal thoughts or hospitalization. The film emphasizes the importance of understanding menopause as a disease rather than just a normal transition in a woman's life. Verma hopes that by educating men about menopause, it will help reduce misunderstandings that may lead to divorce.",
  "summary": "Just as you are approaching your 40s, you think you’ve got the hang of life. You know you are fill-in-the-blank intolerant, xyz conversations are rage-baiting you, and what’s going to be giving you a migraine even before you’ve entered a meeting room. Then comes Menopause. And suddenly, everything you knew about yourself is untrue. Favourite foods are making you bloat. The AC is either too hot or…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}