Menopause

One in three US women older than 35 are no sure whether they are in perimenopause, new research has revealed. The findings suggest uncertainty remains common, largely because of knowledge gaps, symptom confusion and difficulty getting confirmation or care. Perimenopause is the transitional stage before a woman’s final period, when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms [...]

A new menopause drug has been approved for NHS use in Scotland, offering a non-hormonal option for women who cannot take HRT. The Scottish Medicines Consortium has recommended that women can now be prescribed fezolinetant, also known as Veoza, for symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats. Some women cannot take HRT, [...]

Avni Wellness has secured Rs 4 crore, around US$470,000, in seed funding to expand its products and digital commerce capabilities. The Mumbai-based women’s health start-up plans to strengthen its online retail operations and increase its presence across digital marketplaces. It will also expand its cycle nutrition product range and grow its women-led network of micro-entrepreneurs. [...]

Only 31 per cent of US voters believe healthcare does a good job of meeting women’s needs, according to a national survey. The survey found broad agreement that women have distinct health needs requiring specific attention, but that care falls short at several stages of life. Impact Research and Echelon Insights conducted the survey for [...]

A non-hormonal therapy restored vaginal tissue in an animal study, suggesting a possible new treatment for menopause-related GSM. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM, is a chronic condition caused by falling oestrogen levels. It affects the vulva, vagina and urinary tract, causing symptoms including vaginal dryness, painful sex and recurring vaginal or urinary tract infections. [...]

Immunotherapy may temporarily restore fertility in women with autoimmune premature ovarian insufficiency, a pilot study suggests. Three of the 10 women who received treatment later gave birth to healthy babies. Premature ovarian insufficiency, or POI, affects just over three per cent of women worldwide and occurs when the ovaries stop functioning before the age of [...]

An EU committee has backed a report warning of systemic inequalities in women’s health research, diagnosis and treatment across Europe. The European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality approved the report, which was initiated by Renew Europe. Women remain under-represented in medical research and clinical trials. Around 72 per cent of [...]

Statins have been linked to more severe menopause symptoms and a higher risk of muscle loss in postmenopausal women, a study suggests. The medicines are among the most widely prescribed in the world, with strong evidence supporting their use to lower cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk. However, some recognised side effects may resemble symptoms associated [...]

Menopausal women using hormone therapy reported healthier diet, exercise and sleep habits than non-users in a study of more than 10,000 women. The menopause transition is associated with a higher risk of chronic health conditions and symptoms including hot flushes and problems affecting the urinary and genital systems. Hormone therapy is often used to manage [...]

Spain will triple annual women’s health research funding to €18m under a programme focused on discrimination in medical research. Spain’s Ministry of Science will increase investment in research and development projects focused on women’s health to €18m a year. The initiative was announced on Monday by prime minister Pedro Sánchez during the presentation of Somos. [...]