A GROUP in Dorset that supports women through all stages of menopause is growing.

October marks World Menopause Month, and the 18th marks World Menopause Day.

As part of this, your New Blackmore Vale is highlighting a group in Dorset that is going the extra mile to support women going through the change.

Dorset Menopause Support provides offer a safe and friendly place for women who feel distressed, confused and alone when menopausal or guide women who are seeking more information about perimenopause, menopause and the post menopausal years.

Women can share experiences, gaining strength and comfort by meeting others experiencing a similar change in life and challenges with the menopause transition.

They emerge with positive solutions, evidence-based information and new friends, to help them not face this challenge on their own.

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The group holds in person menopause information and support meetings throughout north Dorset and often has guest speakers as well as one-to-one or couples menopause support consultations in person or via online video call.

Picture: Dorset Menopause Support

Menopause support and wellbeing coach Rowan Chambers said: “We can provide menopause talks to community groups, health care professionals, small businesses and organisations to raise awareness and improve knowledge and care of menopause.

“We have a good relationship with local menopause specialists and hold on line talks with Q&A to support women who live further afield.

“Our volunteers go out into the community attending wellbeing fairs and hosting fundraising and wellbeing events to provide information and raise awareness of the menopause support available.”

The group says its Facebook community has grown significantly in recent months, providing a library of menopause information, regular updates on symptoms, up to date management options, guidance and education as well as being able to post questions or share their worries at any time.

Picture: Dorset Menopause Support

“This has proved to be an essential lifeline for many women and has developed into a wonderfully supportive safe space,” Rowan added. “This is a private Facebook group page so provides a safe space for women to share any concerns, anonymously if they wish.”

Dorset Menopause Support fundamentally helps more women reach their full potential, by raising awareness and supporting them at the earliest stage.

Women who receive the right support and manage their symptoms well are said to be happier, healthier and have renewed confidence and vitality to reach their potential both professionally and personally.

Rowan said: “The inequality in women’s health care has for too long been ignored, and this is addressed directly with the menopause support on offer, where there is little knowledge and understanding.

“Both personal relationships and those within the workplace and community are strengthened and improved. Dorset Menopause Support works on a preventative approach to health, encouraging women to address their lifestyle choices in midlife, including nutrition, stress, sleep, exercise, mental wellbeing and approaching their GP for appropriate treatment.

“Dorset Menopause Support website provides essential information about us and why we exist, our events and fundraising activities, all the services and support we provide, including funded activities, free resources and information for women and their families to access at any time.

“There is comprehensive information on menopause and hormones, symptoms and treatments, local professional services, signposting to menopause clinicians and specialists, and a FAQ’s page compiled by menopause specialists.

“There are some moving personal stories and testimonials that have been shared by women we have supported to help others feel validated and less alone during a challenging time.

“We also have a template for a menopause policy in the workplace that can be downloaded, a guide for partners, and direct links to educational videos, documentaries and courses, all to enhance knowledge on menopause.

“Our motto is that we want women to thrive through this time of change in their life, not just survive!”

For more information, visit www.dorsetmenopausesupport.co.uk