Today, October 18, 2024, mark World Menopause Day, a global event organised by the International Menopause Society (IMS) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). This day is crucial for raising awareness and educating people about menopause, a natural stage of life that remains shrouded in taboo and misinformation.
The theme for World Menopause Day 2024 is ‘Menopause Hormone Therapy’ (MHT), also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in some regions. This theme aims to address the controversies and myths surrounding MHT, providing clear and evidence-based information to help women make informed decisions about their health. The IMS has released a White Paper to address key controversies and provide a balanced narrative on MHT.
Menopause affects a significant portion of the workforce, with nearly 6 million women in the UK alone experiencing menopause symptoms. This can lead to significant impacts on their professional lives, with many considering part-time work or even leaving their jobs due to symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for workplaces to support women going through menopause, which can include providing menopause-friendly policies, training sessions, and access to hormone therapy.
The NSW Government has also taken steps to support women by creating the Perimenopause and Menopause Toolkit, which includes a symptom checklist, podcasts with experts, and short explainers to help women understand and manage their symptoms. This toolkit is designed to break down the barriers that prevent women from seeking help and to normalize discussions around menopause.
World Menopause Day is not just about raising awareness but also about promoting good health practices among women. It encourages women to take charge of their health, seek trustworthy information, and engage in open discussions about their experiences. By doing so, it aims to improve women’s health and wellbeing and reduce the stigma associated with menopause.
