New findings highlight lack of healthcare, workplace solutions, and consumer products for women over 40
The Brand is Female, in collaboration with IDC Dermo, has released The Midlife Revolution: Addressing the Unmet Needs of Women Experiencing Perimenopause and Menopause in Canada.
This report, based on a comprehensive national survey of over 1,000 Canadian women aged 40 and above, highlights the significant personal and professional impact of perimenopause and menopause.
According to the report, most of the respondents (96 percent) feel there is insufficient medical research on these life stages. Cognitive changes affect 83 percent of women, 75 percent experience anxiety, and 46 percent face depression as a result of perimenopause or menopause.
These findings highlight the urgent need for improved mental health resources, healthcare, and workplace solutions.
Additionally, almost eight in 10 women (79 percent) believe there are not enough consumer products specifically designed to address the needs of women going through these transitions.
Eva Hartling, founder of The Brand is Female, commented on the report's findings, stating “Our research highlights a critical gap in support for women navigating these life stages.”
She also emphasized that despite 5 million Canadian women over 40 experiencing perimenopause or menopause, the transitions remain widely overlooked, particularly in terms of healthcare, workplace accommodations, and consumer products.
Nancy Labonté, product specialist and innovation committee lead at IDC Dermo, noted “the lack of understanding and support for women during perimenopause and menopause has far-reaching effects.”
She added that now is the time to drive meaningful discussion and create products that help women navigate this stage with confidence.
The report emphasizes a shared responsibility across employers, healthcare providers, and consumer brands to meet the needs of women during perimenopause and menopause.
It urges employers to raise awareness and introduce flexible workplace policies, while healthcare providers are encouraged to offer specialized medical care.
The report also identifies a clear opportunity for consumer brands to create products that address the specific challenges faced by women during these stages.
The Brand is Female and IDC Dermo call on all sectors to take action based on the report’s recommendations and create more inclusive environments.
