New evidence-based toolkits, supported by Sport Ireland and The Irish Menopause Network, provide tailored support for perimenopause and post menopause, addressing a critical gap in women’s health
Researchers from the SHE Research Centre at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) have launched two new evidence-based guides to help Irish women manage the often-debilitating symptoms of menopause.
The initiative responds directly to TUS research finding that menopausal symptoms are interfering with the daily activities of 78% of Irish women going through the transition.
The new ‘Menopause Toolkits’ are unique in that they are two distinct booklets: one for perimenopause and one for post menopause, reflecting the different experiences women have during each stage of menopause.
“Our research shows that perimenopausal women are more likely to experience psychological issues such as irritability and anxiety, while postmenopausal women are more likely to report vasomotor symptoms like hot flushes,” said Dr. Patricia Heavey, Researcher with the SHE Research Centre at TUS.
“It is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ experience, and the guidance we provide shouldn’t be either. These toolkits address that critical need for tailored support.”
The TUS research underscores the significant impact of menopause on quality of life. The new toolkits provide practical, evidence-based guidance on lifestyle strategies that can help manage symptoms and maintain long-term health, focusing on factors like nutrition, exercise, and sleep.
“While Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a common and effective choice for many, it may not be suitable or the first choice for everyone,” continued Dr. Heavey. “We wanted to empower women with scientific, lifestyle strategies they can implement in their daily lives. Providing separate guidance ensures the information is directly relevant to their specific stage and health priorities.”
Speaking at the launch of the toolkits, Chief Academic Officer of TUS, Professor Raphaela Kane said: “I am delighted to see the SHE Research Centre translating rigorous academic research into such accessible, practical tools. These new toolkits are a perfect example of what we strive for at TUS—innovation that directly empowers our community and addresses real-world needs.
“Navigating perimenopause and menopause can often feel isolating, but resources like these remind us that there is a collective response and a wealth of evidence-based support available. By placing women’s health at the forefront of our research agenda, we are not only bridging the gender data gap but ensuring that our staff, students, and the wider region have the knowledge they need to thrive.”
The project was supported by Sport Ireland through its Research Grant scheme.
Commenting on the impact the toolkits will have on women in sport, Benny Cullen, Director of Research and Innovation at Sport Ireland, said: “The Sport Ireland Research Grant scheme was designed to support quality research projects such as the menopause toolkits. We hope this research will help bring about a positive change and improved experiences for women’s sport participation and physical activity. Being able to provide evidenced-based support is critical to ensuring women can enjoy lifelong sports participation.”
Founder of The Irish Menopuse Sallyanne Brady, who engaged with the research team at TUS throughout their research, said the toolkits will be a guiding light for many women.
“My first piece of advice to any woman struggling with perimenopause is always the same: get informed. Knowledge is power, but for years, finding reliable, evidence-based information has been the biggest hurdle.
These new guides from the SHE Research Centre at TUS are a guiding light for women’s health in Ireland. They are not just booklets; they are tools of empowerment. They give women the clear, practical information they need on lifestyle, mental health and nutrition, allowing them to have informed conversations with their doctor and, most importantly, with themselves. This is a brilliant, necessary step forward.”
The toolkits can be downloaded at: https://www.sheresearch.ie/menopause-toolkit