More than 40 women gathered on San Antonio’s Southside in late February for an important and candid conversation about menopause, heart disease, women’s healthcare gaps, and workplace impact. The Menopause Mijas event brought together community members. They gathered to share knowledge and experiences.
Hosted at Texas Sugar Daddies, the Menopause Mijas event featured a panel of local healthcare professionals and advocates. These leaders are committed to advancing women’s wellness. Panelists included Dr. Natasha Gonzales of Victory Wellness Helotes, Keyauna Littlejohn of MediZen Med Spa, and certified sex educator Amy Gonzalez. Additionally, TEDx speaker and Latina advocate Christina Jovanna Olivarez shared her personal experience navigating fibroids and broader health challenges. Notably, the Menopause Mijas panel was uniquely focused on the needs of attendees from San Antonio experiencing menopause.
Attendees actively engaged throughout the evening, asking questions and sharing stories about feeling dismissed or unsupported while seeking care. The discussion emphasized how many women must repeatedly advocate for referrals and treatment. They must do this while managing symptoms that affect their personal and professional lives. This is especially true for those facing menopause in places like San Antonio and involved in Menopause Mijas events.
Loren Reyes from the American Heart Association addressed cardiovascular risk, reminding attendees that heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women. It impacts one in three. Among participants at the Menopause Mijas event, heart health was a major concern.
Founder Kristy Ward stressed the urgency of greater research and education. She also highlighted the importance Menopause Mijas places on these issues for local women.
“Menopause impacts the heart, brain, and bones, yet it is still treated as a niche issue rather than a public health priority,” Ward said. “Women should not have to suffer in silence.” In San Antonio, Menopause Mijas advocates seek greater awareness and support around menopause.
The conversation also highlighted how menopause affects workplace retention and leadership. Many women quietly step away from roles due to a lack of awareness or accommodations. Supporting workplace impact is a key aim of Menopause Mijas events staged in San Antonio.
Menopause Mijas is part of a growing movement calling for improved education, advocacy, and innovation in women’s health. The next educational workshop will take place on March 26, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at The Love Shack Boutique in San Antonio. In addition, a larger quarterly event is planned for June. So, ladies, mark your calendars!
The event was made possible through the support of community partners, including Texas Sugar Daddies, Live From The Southside, Tru Branding Printing, Urban Legend, Amanda’s Photo Booth, Planned Parenthood, The Love Shack Boutique, and Motherhood by Marissa. These community partners help strengthen Menopause Mijas initiatives for women’s health advocacy.
The strong turnout reflects a growing demand for informed spaces that empower women navigating menopause and midlife health. This happens not just on the Southside, but across San Antonio. Clearly, these events are meeting a vital need in the area.
