Women are more familiar with changing a car tyre than with perimenopause and menopause, according to research from a recent You Gov poll.

But health experts from across the region hope to change that by shining a light on what was once a taboo subject.

On March 16, integrative health specialists, gynaecologists and women’s health advocates from across the South Coast will come together to host the Ignite Perimenopause and Menopause Expo at Kiama Pavilion, providing women with the information, help and treatment they deserve to manage the major life transition.

Ignite speakers will include GP and menopause expert Dr Charlotte Middleton, women’s health advocate Emma Magill and gynaecologist Dr Dharmesh Kothari.

“For too long, menopause has been swept under the carpet,” says Dr Middleton. 

A recent News Australia survey, in partnership with women’s health organisation the Jean Gaines Foundation, found 37 per cent of respondents had little or no knowledge of perimenopause and menopause symptoms and treatment options. 

This figure increased to 62 per cent among those under 40.

But Dr Middleton, who runs the Young Street Medical Practice, an integrative health clinic that specialises in perimenopause and menopause, hope expos like Ignite, which she founded in partnership with Ms Magill, will change that.

“Experts from the Young Street Clinic, Jamberoo’s My Menopause clinic, Woonona Medical practice and our charity partner Illawarra Women's Health Centre will be among 30 exhibitor stands upstairs. Presentations will be held across three rooms along with a range of workshops downstairs. 

Dr Middleton says the expo addresses a “seismic societal shift” led by women to address an issue that blindsides many in their busiest and most stressful years.

“Perimenopause and menopause symptoms begin at a time when women are at the peak of their careers, often raising teens who are also dealing with their own hormonal shifts, they might also be looking after their elderly parents - their caregiving is at its peak - but they are caring for everyone else while often forgetting about their own health,” says Dr Middleton.

Risks associated with menopause can include increased heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and mental health problems. 

More than half of the women surveyed in the News Australia poll raised concerns about the long-term physical and mental health impacts of menopause. 

More than a quarter of survey participants also said limited GP training was their biggest challenge in seeking treatment. 

This is mirrored by a federal government senate inquiry into menopause and perimenopause in 2024, which found a widespread lack of understanding and awareness of perimenopause and menopause, even among health professionals.

During the inquiry’s public submissions women frequently reported limited access to evidence-based information and support, which led to frustration and feelings of isolation.

Dr Middleton has welcomed national clinical guidelines for healthcare professionals, along with increased training, to ensure women in perimenopause and menopause receive consistent advice, support and treatment based on rigorous research.

Her and colleagues are leading the charge to prepare women to tackle menopause proactively, providing assessment, triage and referral to multidisciplinary teams including physiotherapy, psychology or psychiatry, dietitians and medical specialists to reduce health risks. 

“Our mission is to raise awareness and break down stigma, while providing support around the perimenopause and menopause journey,” she says.

Ms Magill knows first-hand about the rollercoaster of perimenopause - “the climbs, the dips and the loops”.

“This workshop has been created to help women navigate and celebrate this stage of life with confidence and surrounded by community," she says.

"We want women of all ages to walk away feeling connected, confident and completely seen."

For tickets visit https://thepavilionkiama.com.au/events/ignite-the-perimenopause-and-menopause-expo/