World Menopause Awareness Day 2026

World Menopause Awareness Day is an annual event dedicated to raising global awareness about menopause and the health-related issues women face during this phase of life. The day serves as an important reminder to break the silence around menopause, provide support, and educate both women and men about the physical and emotional changes that occur. It aims to foster a better understanding of menopause, promote women’s health, and encourage women to take proactive steps in managing their health during midlife.

What is World Menopause Awareness Day?

World Menopause Awareness Day is an international observance held to increase awareness about menopause and to help women understand the health implications of this natural life transition. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and is marked by the cessation of menstrual periods. It brings various physical and emotional symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in sleep patterns. The day is supported by health organizations around the world to provide resources and education on managing these symptoms and ensuring that women prioritise their overall well-being during menopause.

When is World Menopause Awareness Day?

World Menopause Awareness Day is observed annually on October 18th. This day is part of a broader initiative to promote women’s midlife health and is supported by the International Menopause Society (IMS) and other health organisations globally. Throughout the day, various events, campaigns, and educational programs are organised to spread awareness, encourage open discussions, and support women as they navigate menopause.

Menopause Pledge

The Menopause Pledge is a global initiative calling on organisations, employers, and individuals to create more supportive environments for women experiencing menopause. By signing the pledge, you can contribute to ensuring that workplaces and communities offer understanding, resources, and flexibility for women during this phase of life. The pledge advocates for raising awareness, normalising discussions about menopause, and promoting policies that support women’s health and well-being.

How to Sign the Pledge: Individuals and organisations can sign the pledge by visiting dedicated online platforms or health organisation websites that host the Menopause Pledge. By signing, you show your commitment to fostering a culture where menopause is openly discussed and adequately supported.

You can access the Menopause Workplace Pledge here.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in World Menopause Awareness Day and support the women in your life:

• Attend Informational Events: Join local or virtual seminars and workshops that provide valuable information on menopause, covering topics such as symptom management, hormonal changes, and mental health strategies.
• Raise Awareness: Use your voice on social media or in your community to talk about menopause and its challenges. Sharing accurate information helps reduce the stigma surrounding menopause and encourages others to do the same.
• Consult a Healthcare Provider: Take the time to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your health during menopause. Understanding your symptoms and available treatments is essential for managing menopause effectively.
• Support Women’s Health Initiatives: Advocate for better research and healthcare policies that focus on menopause and midlife women’s health. Support organizations that are working to advance care for women in this stage of life.
• Share Your Experiences: Openly discuss your menopause journey with friends, family, or online communities. Personal stories can offer comfort to others going through the same experiences and foster a more supportive environment.

History of World Menopause Awareness Day

World Menopause Awareness Day was established by the International Menopause Society (IMS) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to address the lack of understanding and attention surrounding menopause. Since its inception, October 18th has become a day to unite global efforts in educating women about menopause and promoting the importance of women’s health during midlife. The day also aims to encourage more research into menopause-related issues and advocate for better healthcare services and resources for women going through this phase of life.

Relevant Hashtags

Engage with the global movement and help spread awareness by using these hashtags:

• #WorldMenopauseDay
• #MenopauseAwareness
• #BreakTheSilence
• #HealthyMidlife
• #MenopauseSupport
• #MenopausePledge