The menopause market is exploding. Walk into any pharmacy or scroll through social media, and you'll be met with a dizzying array of products promising to 'solve' this natural life stage. From specialised supplements and cooling sprays to high-tech wearables and dedicated apps, it seems there's a product for every single symptom.
But is this commercial boom truly serving women, or is it simply creating another marketplace that profits from female biology while failing to address the root causes of their struggle?
The Product Paradox: Solutions or Sticking Plasters?
On the surface, this new visibility is positive. For too long, menopause was whispered about, if discussed at all. Now, with high-profile conversations and corporate interest, it's firmly on the agenda. The market response has been swift, flooding shelves with items targeting hot flushes, brain fog, and sleep disruption.
However, this product-centric approach risks medicalising a normal transition. It places the burden of 'managing' menopause squarely on the individual woman and her wallet, suggesting that with the right purchase, she can minimise the disruption and carry on as before.
The Real Barrier Isn't Biological - It's Cultural
The true challenge of menopause for many women isn't just the physiological symptoms; it's navigating a world not designed for them. The real crisis occurs at the intersection of menopause and daily life:
- The Unforgiving Workplace: Rigid schedules, lack of temperature control, and performance cultures that penalise moments of brain fog or fatigue.
- Persistent Stigma: Despite more conversation, many still feel unable to discuss their needs with managers or colleagues for fear of being seen as less capable.
- Inadequate Healthcare: Many GPs still receive minimal training on menopause, leading to misdiagnosis or dismissal of symptoms.
No amount of cooling spray can fix a corporate culture that values presenteeism over well-being. No supplement can counteract the stress of fearing career derailment because of a natural biological process.
From Consumer Solutions to Cultural Shifts
So, what does meaningful change look like? It requires moving beyond the shopping cart and demanding systemic evolution:
- Workplace Revolution: Implementing genuine menopause policies—flexible working hours, quiet and cool rooms, manager training, and open dialogue.
- Medical Education: Mandating comprehensive menopause training for all healthcare professionals to ensure women receive informed, empathetic care.
- Redefining Value: Challenging the narrative that women must 'power through' and instead creating spaces where it's safe to be human, with fluctuating needs and capacities.
The conversation is no longer just about finding relief from symptoms; it's about redesigning our institutions to honour women's health throughout their entire lives. The most valuable product the menopause market could offer isn't for sale—it's a fundamental shift in our culture.
