By Courtney McCullers
Perimenopause affects millions of women during their peak earning and leadership years, yet conversations about it remain rare. This hormonal transition can begin in a woman’s late 30s or early 40s and last up to a decade, bringing symptoms that are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed by the healthcare system. It’s one of the least supported phases of women’s health, despite being universal.
On Saturday, March 7, the next installment of the Community Impact Film Series continues with a focus on women’s health for Women’s History Month. The event features the debut of The (M) Factor 2: Before The Pause (Perimenopause), a powerful new film that explores the realities of perimenopause, its symptoms, its impact on women’s health, and the solutions helping women thrive. From the producers of the pioneering documentary The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, which aired nationally on PBS and reached millions internationally, this sequel continues the crucial dialogue about hormones, aging, and the transition leading up to menopause.
This is the first-ever documentary about perimenopause, created by and for women who’ve lived it. The film examines systemic gaps in research, funding, and clinical education while highlighting the leaders and innovations working to transform what care looks like for women. It’s a long-overdue antidote to the lack of information and treatment options, empowering women to take control of their health and well-being when prevention and planning can make the biggest impact.
Documentary films have a unique power to make the invisible visible, to bring conversations out into the open. When half the population goes through a decade-long transition that the healthcare system barely acknowledges, something needs to change. Film can start that change, and this screening does exactly that with a panel of local experts who understand the gaps in care firsthand. This event offers a chance to learn, connect, and get your most pressing questions about perimenopause answered. Join us for this special screening and conversation.
Outdoor Yoga & Resource Fair | 10 a.m.
Start the morning with yoga on the front lawn led by Dancing Lotus, or connect with local organizations and get valuable resources supporting women’s health.
Poetic Response Featuring Glenis Redmond | 11 a.m.
Join South Carolina’s inaugural Poet Laureate and 2025 recipient of the Order of the Palmetto for her poetic response.
The (M) Factor 2: Before The Pause | 11:15 a.m.
Premiering this spring, this 60-minute documentary will feature real stories and expert insights on how this phase impacts heart, brain, and bone health.
Post-Screening Panel Discussion | 12:20 p.m.
Hear from local experts from Novant Health, YWCA Central Carolinas, Tryon Medical Partners Women’s Center, and The Menopause Society as they dissect the main takeaways from the documentary.
Resource Fair | 1:00 p.m.
Get more information and connect with support networks.
Learn more about the event here.