What do women wish they’d known about the menopause?

The things women wish they’d known about the menopause are explored in a new video, inspired by our recent ‘Let’s talk about the menopause’ event.

The idea for the event came from a group of our public contributors. The group included women of pre, peri and post-menopausal age. They wanted a safe space to talk and hear evidence-based information about menopause symptoms and treatments. The event was open to everyone, regardless of age or gender.

Taking place in October 2025, the event brought together nearly 50 women of all ages to talk all things menopause in Easton Community Centre, Bristol.

The day consisted of presentations about the basics of menopause, HRT and lived menopause experiences. There were also interactive tables with different activities, led by diet, movement and menopause experts.

Watch the video

The video features some of the event attendees and presenters, talking about their menopause experiences and how better information could have helped them. We hope that it is useful for anyone experiencing the menopause, or supporting anyone who might.

Adele Webb, ARC West public contributor and one of the brains behind the event, said:

“Menopause is such a pivotal time in most women’s lives. Of course it used to be called ‘The Change’, and although it’s a tired label now, it is definitely a period of upheaval and transformation. Back in those days you didn’t really talk about it – women just got on with it and suffered in silence.

“From the germ of an idea in our small group of women, I am so pleased to see this event and video come to fruition. Thank you to the ARC West team for making our ideas a reality. A great impact on a tiny budget.”

Dr Rowan Brockman, Senior Research Associate at ARC West and one of the event organisers, said:

“It’s been a delight to make our public contributors’ idea a reality. It was a fantastic day, full of warmth, support and reliable advice. We loved bringing such a diverse group of women together.

“The event was really for anyone who might be affected by the menopause, whether experiencing it themselves or supporting someone experiencing it. We were hoping a few men might come along, but sadly they didn’t!”

The team are thinking about their next steps. Feedback from attendees suggested a menopause event specially designed for men. This would help ensure they have the knowledge to support their partners, family members and friends through the menopause.