Are Canadian Women Over 40 Being Left in the Dark About Menopause Support?

In an eye-opening new report, The Brand is Female has teamed up with IDC Dermo to unveil "The Midlife Revolution: Addressing the Unmet Needs of Women Experiencing Perimenopause and Menopause in Canada." This critical study, which surveyed over 1,000 Canadian women aged 40 and older, reveals alarming gaps in the support available for women entering this crucial phase of life.

Shockingly, a staggering 96% of women surveyed believe there is a severe lack of medical research focused on perimenopause and menopause. The report indicates that cognitive changes are affecting 83% of women, while 75% report experiencing anxiety and nearly half (46%) struggle with depression during these transitions. These findings underscore the pressing need for more awareness and resources dedicated to women's health as they age.

Furthermore, the majority of respondents—79%—expressed that the market is flooded with general products but lacks specifically designed solutions for women grappling with the challenges of menopause. This highlights a significant oversight by both healthcare providers and commercial brands when addressing the needs of this demographic.

Eva Hartling, founder of The Brand is Female, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “Our research highlights a critical gap in support for women navigating these life stages,” she stated. With 5 million Canadian women over 40 facing perimenopause or menopause, it is alarming that their experiences are still largely ignored in discussions about health and wellness.

Nancy Labonté, a product specialist at IDC Dermo, echoed these sentiments, stating, “The lack of understanding and support for women during perimenopause and menopause has far-reaching effects.” She called for an immediate shift in conversation and innovative product development that empowers women to embrace this transitional phase confidently.

The report advocates for a collective commitment among employers, healthcare professionals, and consumer brands to proactively address and meet the needs of women during perimenopause and menopause. By acknowledging these challenges, there lies a clear opportunity for businesses to step up and create targeted products that genuinely address the experiences of women during this significant period in their lives.

As awareness grows, will Canadian society rise to the occasion and provide the necessary support for women enduring one of life’s most profound changes? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the conversation around menopause needs to change, and it needs to happen now!