As part of the Curtin University Public Health Capstone unit, we’ve been asked to complete a group project to create possible solutions to a health challenge experienced by a specific group in the community. Our group of four are grappling with the issue of menopause as a complex, multifaceted and ‘hard to quickly fix’ health issue that has a distinct sexological component.

The design of this platform including the survey, the website and the draft resources form our ‘phase one’ approach to this highly stigmatised concern. We believe that in order to really grapple with menopause and to best supply suitable interventions for the issues raised – we need to begin by deeply listening to the experience of menopausal people and their needs. We want to start by sharing stories and starting conversations because that’s how we break down stigma.

We hope that some day, the real stigma of speaking about menopause is eradicated forever, and instead it becomes a natural, normal and easy conversation for everyone – with easy to apply accomodations that reflect the value menopausal people bring to a vibrant workplace.