The NSW Government has today launched a free online Toolkit offering women advice on how to better recognise and understand the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause such as night sweats, mood swings and disturbed sleep.

The Toolkit provides links to clear and accurate information including locations of NSW Government funded clinics.

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said around one in five women experience severe or prolonged menopause symptoms, and many suffer in silence.

“In previous generations, women were expected to deal with perimenopause and menopause privately. It’s important for women’s health and wellbeing that we break down social stigmas around discussing and seeking treatment for perimenopause and menopause,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Women live around a third of their life after menopause. Women are still working, caring and giving back to their communities. We cannot afford to ignore the very real effects of menopause for women. We need to remember menopause is normal.”

“I want women to know that they no longer need to keep calm and carry on, together we can smash the taboo!”

The NSW Government is investing $150 million over four years to improve women’s health and wellbeing, including $40.3 million from the 2022-23 NSW Budget towards services for women experiencing severe perimenopause and menopause symptoms.

Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said similar to the Return to Work Toolkit and the Women’s Financial Toolkit, the Menopause Toolkit offers useful advice and resources.

“There are a number of negative health outcomes that can occur during menopause including depression, osteoporosis, weight management issues and increased risk of heart attack, heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Having a free online toolkit that identifies the many symptoms and risks of menopause and more importantly, informs women when and where to get help, can be lifesaving.

“The toolkit is in addition to the 16 menopause services, including four hubs, to be set up in NSW, which will also offer virtual consultations where needed.”

The NSW Government is also developing an education and awareness campaign about perimenopause and menopause, offering resources for GPs and employers.

The NSW Government has partnered with Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, a national not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving women’s health through every life stage, to help women navigate perimenopause and menopause.

Janet Michelmore AO, daughter of the late Dr Jean Hailes, said for over 30 years Jean Hailes for Women’s Health has been a global leader in menopause.

“On World Menopause Day we are proud to partner with Women NSW to provide evidence-based information to all women so they can live full and healthy lives during midlife and beyond,” said Mrs Michelmore AO.

Find out more by visiting the Women NSW Menopause Resources and Support Toolkit.