Menopause awareness campaign focuses on Scots farmers

Farmstrong Scotland has launched a campaign to raise awareness of menopause in Scottish agriculture, aiming to support farming women and the men working alongside them.

Timed to coincide with Menopause Awareness Month and World Menopause Day on 18 October, the campaign includes podcasts, personal stories, blogs, expert advice and a live event, all specifically tailored to the Scottish agricultural community.

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The initiative begins with a new menopause guide (PDF) featuring symptoms, myth-busters, and advice for men.

It was developed with Farmstrong’s expert Dr Heather Currie, one of Scotland’s leading gynaecologists and the founder of Menopause Matters.

“It’s great that these women who are involved in farming have come forward to share their experiences for this campaign, to show that it’s not all about hot flushes,” said Dr Currie.

“The menopause is individual to everyone who experiences it; symptoms can be different, lifestyles are different, and the impact is different.”

The Blether Together podcast will feature crofter Sally Crowe from Caithness and farmer Lesley Mitchell from the Scottish Borders.

Later in the campaign, Killin farmer Christine Cameron will share her experience with perimenopause.

“It’s not about asking men to do everything… but if we can, help them gain a better understanding. Patience is needed on both sides,” she said.

The campaign includes a nutrition resource with insights from Dr Laura Wyness and retired nurse Sheila Ogilvie, who says eating healthier has improved her wellbeing. “Whatever you feed your body also feeds your brain,” she pointed out.