Rebuilding trust in menopause care

In the Rebuilding trust: Tackling inequity in menopause care report, we call for a more inclusive and culturally-sensitive approach to menopause support – one that reflects the diverse needs and experiences of people affected by the menopause.

The APPG on menopause invited women and people from the following communities: disabled and neurodivergent women and people, ethnic minorities in the UK, LGBTQIA+, those experiencing poverty and domestic abuse, and women and people in prisons, to share their experiences of accessing menopause support.

Findings show that many women and people from marginalised communities are being left to navigate menopause without access to culturally relevant healthcare, trusted information, or community-specific resources.

The impact of unmet menopause needs

Untreated menopause symptoms can have a profound effect on the lives of women —straining relationships, harming mental health, and forcing some to leave the workforce. These challenges are preventable with the right understanding, support, and care in place.

For marginalised communities, the situation is even more severe. Symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety and hot flushes are too often misdiagnosed or dismissed due to:

• A lack of cultural understanding and awareness among healthcare professionals
• Insufficient community-based information
• Limited research into how menopause affects diverse populations

This lack of culturally competent care leads to delayed or inappropriate treatment and deepens health inequalities. It has also eroded trust between these communities and the NHS, leaving many unsure that their concerns will be taken seriously.

What needs to change

Evidence gathered through expert testimony and lived experience revealed three recurring themes contributing to poorer outcomes:

• Lack of relevant information – Menopause information rarely speaks to diverse identities and cultures, fuelling stigma and delaying help-seeking.
• Barriers in healthcare settings – Many do not feel safe, seen or heard when seeking help, and a lack of professional awareness often leads to dismissal.
• Absence of research and data – A serious lack of evidence about menopause in marginalised communities makes it impossible to design effective, inclusive care.

Five key actions for change

The report calls for targeted action to close these gaps and ensure everyone can access the care they deserve:

• Cultural intelligence training for healthcare professionals to better understand the needs of all communities.
• Improved patient experience through better use of digital records, shared data, flexible appointments and continuity of care.
• Safe community spaces where people can connect, share experiences and access expert menopause support.
• Culturally relevant information resources co-designed with communities.
• Investment in research to understand the experiences of diverse groups during menopause.

A call to government

The upcoming refresh of the Women’s Health Strategy is a vital opportunity for the Government to act. To truly improve outcomes and avoid deepening existing inequalities, this strategy must listen to and empower those most in need.

By rebuilding trust and placing inclusion at the heart of menopause care, we can ensure that every woman and person—no matter their background—has access to the support they need.