The University of Exeter’s 'The Impact of Menopause' research project has appointed research fellow Dr. Fatma Sabet, to undertake a review into the effectiveness of menopause support for healthcare professionals working in the NHS.
In 2022, the Medical Protection Society (MPS) called on leaders and managers in the healthcare sector to consider adapting working environments to help women experiencing menopause continue to perform at their best for patients and stay in the workforce. MPS’s survey of female healthcare workers in the UK revealed that 19% had considered early retirement due to menopause symptoms and the impact on their wellbeing.
Since then, interventions including NHS England guidelines, policies, menopause clinics, flexible working, cooler uniforms and training for staff have been introduced across the NHS, however the effectiveness of these measures is unknown.
Dr. Fatma Sabet’s role in the research project, which is funded by the MPS Foundation, will develop an understanding of which interventions work, why and in what settings and set out recommendations for the most effective interventions. The work will be supported by a project advisory group which includes senior leaders in the menopause field, healthcare professionals with experience of the menopause and those designing and providing support interventions.
Fatma was awarded a doctoral scholarship in 2019 and subsequent postdoctoral fellowships by the Economic and Social Research Council. This enabled her to pursue a doctoral study that culminated in the creation of a planetary health framework for school food in England. Fatma also established the Devon County Council School Food Task Group and served as a member of the National Advisory Board for Public Food Procurement. She is also a volunteer consultant and advisor for The Nest community enterprise in Exeter, supporting women's health across the four Ms: menarche, menstruation, motherhood, and menopause.
Professor Gozie Offiah, Chair of the MPS Foundation, said: “We are proud to be supporting the appointment of Fatma to progress this important research. In the UK, over 50% of doctors, 89% of nurses and 99.7% of midwives are female. Of the female doctors, almost two in five are aged between 41-60. It is essential that we do all we can to ensure the menopause support provided is appropriate and effective. Getting this right will alleviate additional stress for female healthcare workers, and enable them to continue to perform at their best for patients.”
Commenting, Dr. Fatma Sabet, said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been offered the role of menopause research fellow. I am truly excited about the opportunity to contribute to this important field, advancing knowledge and raising awareness about the gender health gap and the critical need for adequate support for healthcare professionals navigating menopause.”
Dr. Jessica Scott, Principle Investigator of the project, Devon Partnership NHS Trust and University of Exeter, added: “This is a vital research project which will greatly benefit from Fatma’s experience and passion. Understanding which menopause support interventions work, which do not, and why will help to ensure all healthcare workers experiencing menopause are better supported in the future.”
