Menopause Femtech

The vFit Gold uses red-light photo biomodulation technology and sonic vibration to promote a stronger pelvic floor. Red LED lights in the 662nm wavelength encourage blood flow, while sonic vibration aids in muscle stimulation. (Don’t forget the recommended Photonic Gel.)

ELITONE is another intimate device that provides a noninvasive solution for the common symptom of incontinence. The device can be discreetly worn under clothes, allowing users to treat their symptoms whenever and wherever they choose. The FDA-cleared automatic pelvic floor exerciser consists of an adhesive GelPad operated by a small controller, which, when worn for 20 minutes a day, helps to rebuild muscle tone and improve control. Wearables aside, increased access to telemedicine has arguably been the most impactful advancement for menopause treatment and support. “It all starts with a conversation,” says Jill Angelo, CEO of Gennev, a platform that connects subscribers to doctors, nutritionists, and health coaches. Prescription support, medical guidance, exercise advice, and mindfulness practices are all delivered virtually. “No woman experiences menopause the same as another, so her ability to receive 1:1 personalized care is wellenabled through telehealth video and text communication ” Maven Clinic, which offers services through employers like Microsoft (and nearly half of the Fortune 15), recently announced its dedicated Menopause and Ongoing Care platform The program provides access to 24/7 virtual care, peer communities, and concierge support to members across 175 countries. “The fact that even after seeking help from their provider, almost three out of four menopause patients are left untreated shows that it’s high time for a new approach,” said Dr Neel Shah, Chief Medical Officer of Maven But developing a new approach requires better information.

When asked about areas of menopause support and investing that deserve more attention, several experts pointed to the need for more research and science-backed solutions. “Studying the health outcomes related to menopause treatment is vastly underfunded and underserved,” said Gennev’s Jill Angelo. Womaness co-founders Michelle Jacobs and Sally Mueller agree and point out there is scant research and data around perimenopause and menopause despite 51 million women experiencing menopause in the U.S. alone. But they also optimistically note that many emerging menopause brands and technologies revolve around symptom tracking and data collection. They say this is critical because understanding when symptoms begin, how they evolve, and what treatments help will greatly impact future options for care.

Some government officials are working to increase funding for menopause research. Last September, Reps. David McKinley (R-W. Va.) and Cindy Axne (D-Iowa) introduced the “Menopause Research Act,” which would put $100 million into the National Institutes of Health in 2023 and 2024 to research treatments. And earlier this year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced an initiative to “dismantle decades of systemic inequity that have negatively impacted the health of women across the five boroughs.” Mayor Adams’ vision includes creating more menopausefriendly workplaces and expanding access to specific treatments.

The need for more treatments, research, and services is clear and thankfully financial backing and public support are mounting. “Every woman will experience this life stage,” said Garnier, “and it’s bordering on criminal neglect that women have suffered for so long in silence and [are] not getting the care and support that they need.” Let’s hope her vision for the Year of Menopause will be just the beginning.