Menopause market growth could prompt scrutiny over symptom-focused products

Experts say the menopause market has expanded to include apps, wearable cooling devices and supplements, and researchers have warned that unregulated companies may be exploiting limited reliable guidance.

Wearable tech, apps and new products are increasingly being marketed to menopausal women as public discussion of menopause becomes less stigmatised. Startups and established firms now offer items from cooling wristbands to symptom-tracking apps and dietary supplements. One example is the MyCelsius wrist-worn cooling device, which the maker sells as a response to hot flushes. Investor interest has grown alongside the product range, and market research projects a larger global menopause market in coming years. Key facts: - Grand View Research projects the global menopause market could reach about $24bn by 2030. - MyCelsius is described by its maker, Celsius Innovations, as a wrist-worn cooling device priced at £229.99 intended to relieve hot flushes. - Reported investors in the broader menopause sector include venture capital funds, Bayer, Unilever Ventures and retail partners such as Tesco. - A University College London study led by Prof Joyce Harper warned of a "menopause gold rush," described a rapid expansion of unregulated private companies, and called for a national education programme. - Clinicians such as Dr Claire Phipps acknowledge potential benefits from some devices but note a lack of randomised controlled trials and uneven professional guidance for menopause care. - Surveys cited in reporting indicate many UK women over 50 report struggles with mental health, relationship changes and appearance-related effects while experiencing menopause. Summary: The growing number of products and the rise in investor interest have been met with warnings about unregulated claims and uneven evidence. University College London researchers have called for a national education programme in response to these concerns. How regulators, researchers or industry will address evidence gaps and misinformation is undetermined at this time.