This news page is included in issue 103 (Winter 2024-2025) of The Menopause Exchange newsletter.

Menopause webinars for men

Norma Goldman is now presenting online ‘Understanding the Menopause’ webinars to men. This is in addition to her webinars for women and for workplaces (see the box here and on page 8). Knowing about the menopause can help men to better support their wife or partner, employees and/or work colleagues who are experiencing symptoms at this time of life. Each Zoom webinar lasts for one hour, with time for questions, and includes an emailed factsheet. Norma qualified as a pharmacist and is a health promotion specialist. She’s a passionate advocate for supporting women through the perimenopause and menopause and is a trusted voice in this area of health and wellbeing. You can find out more about Norma’s first webinar for men by emailing her at The Menopause Exchange (norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk).

NICE guidelines

The NICE guideline on the menopause was updated in November 2024, recognising that women’s experiences of the menopause vary considerably. The guideline includes new evidence to support women’s informed choices, an individualised approach & shared decision-making, clarifies the risks & benefits of HRT, and highlights the role of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for hot flushes and night sweats. It also includes new recommendations on the management of genitourinary symptoms (such as vaginal dryness, painful sex & vaginal comfort/ irritation). There’s a visual summary to help healthcare professionals treating women with or without a history of breast cancer to find the right HRT to suit specific needs.

Adult asthma risk

Adult asthma is more common in women than in men, and existing asthma symptoms often get worse during the perimenopause. According to new research published in the Menopause journal, women with a natural menopause at a later age may have an increased risk of adult asthma. The study found that women whose menopause started at age 40 to 44 were 30% less likely to develop adult asthma than women whose menopause started at age 50 to 54. Oestrogen can control both inflammation and the immune system and may increase lung inflammation. Being very overweight is also a risk factor for asthma in women, because fat produces oestrogen.

Fezolinetant monitoring

Fezolinetant (Veoza), which may be prescribed for moderate to severe hot flushes and night sweats, has been linked with liver problems. Doctors are advised not to prescribe it to women at a higher risk of liver disease or with existing liver problems. It’s important to have liver function tests before taking fezolinetant and have monthly liver function tests during at least the first three months of treatment. Signs and symptoms of possible liver damage can include fatigue, itching, jaundice, dark urine, pale poo, sickness and/or vomiting, decreased appetite and/ or abdominal pain.

New Wuka sleepwear range

Wuka, best known for sustainable period care, has launched a new sleepwear range to help tackle hot flushes and night sweats. The Wuka Sleepwear for Menopause collection uses FreshTech Technology, which helps to reduce body temperatures by up to 2.5 degrees and lock away moisture. The fabric also has natural anti-bacterial properties. The range includes a jersey shorts and T-shirt set (£80) and a jersey T-shirt dress (£60). For more information, visit https://wuka.co.uk.

Vaginal oestrogen update

You can now buy Ovesse vaginal oestrogen directly from Boots in-store pharmacies and Boots online without a prescription. Ovesse can be used to treat vaginal dryness, soreness, burning, itching and irritation caused by vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women aged 50+ who haven’t had a period for at least a year. Before you buy Ovesse, you’ll be asked some questions by a pharmacist to ensure it’s suitable for you. Each pack (£19.95 for a 15g tube) contains 30 doses.

Resistance training benefits?

A new 12-week research study at the University of Exeter has found that low-impact resistance training (using Pvolve classes) can improve hip strength, dynamic balance, flexibility and lean body mass in women aged 40 to 60. Pvolve uses resistance bands, ankle weights, dumbbells and balance and stability training. You can do it at home. Visit https://healf.com for information.

Are you following us?

If you want to keep up with The Menopause Exchange’s news, don’t forget to check out our social media channels. The Menopause Exchange is on X/Twitter: @MenopauseExch. You can also like and follow our Facebook page: search for The Menopause Exchange. You’ll recognise us from our logo.

Norma Goldman’s menopause webinars

Norma Goldman, founder & director of The Menopause Exchange, presents regular webinars for women interested in the perimenopause and menopause. Her webinars can be accessed through Zoom. Norma has a pharmacy degree and worked as a community pharmacist for many years. She is also a qualified health promotion specialist and has been presenting workshops and talks since 1999. She launched her webinars in 2020. Norma is highly attuned to women’s concerns about going through the menopause and interacts with people attending her webinars, listening to their experiences and answering their questions. Each webinar (including questions) lasts for one hour. If you attend a webinar, you’ll be emailed a factsheet (containing a summary of the webinar information) afterwards. These webinars aren’t designed for healthcare professionals. If you’re interested in attending a webinar and would like to know about future dates and times, email Norma on norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk.

Copyright © The Menopause Exchange 2025