Needless to say, every woman who lives into her late forties or fifties will experience menopause, but that doesn't mean it is discussed publicly very often. Despite the fact that as many as 80% of women will experience menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes and night sweats, celebrities and other media figures are mostly silent about their experiences.

So this month, we're inspired by those who have not been silent. They include actress Jane Seymour, who spoke publicly about her decision to use hormone replacement therapy to treat her symptoms and actress Angelina Jolie, who experienced early menopause after surgery to prevent gynecological cancer.

First Lady Michelle Obama said that menopause is a topic among her friends, as they all begin to experience it and Desperate Housewives actress Brenda Strong encouraged women to speak up about the more personal impacts of menopause like painful sex and loss of libido.

These women inspire all of us to be more honest about our experiences with menopause. We don't all have to go public, of course. But being comfortable enough to discuss your symptoms with your partner and your doctor will help you get the support you need.