GenM M-Tick: Empowering Women in Menopause with Tailored Support

Menopause is a significant phase in a woman's life that brings about a range of physical and emotional changes. With symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, menopause can be challenging to navigate. However, there is a rising need for personalised guidance and support during this transformative journey. Recognising this, GenM has introduced the M-Tick, a revolutionary tool designed to signpost women in menopause to the best products and services to support them. In this blog post, we will delve into who GenM is, what the M-Tick is all about, and how it serves as a valuable resource to empower women during this crucial life stage.

Who is GenM?

GenM is a leading health technology company dedicated to improving women's health and well-being.The organisation's primary focus lies in leveraging technology and innovation to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women during perimenopause and menopause. By combining extensive research, data analysis, and partnerships with healthcare professionals, GenM strives to provide women with evidence-based solutions to enhance their overall quality of life.

Understanding Menopause and its Challenges

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although the timing can vary for each individual. Menopause is characterised by a decline in the production of oestrogen and progesterone, leading to various symptoms and potential health risks.

The menopausal transition can be challenging, as women often face a wide range of symptoms, including hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances. Additionally, menopause can increase the risk of long-term health conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. Despite being a universal experience, menopause remains a topic that is often stigmatised and under discussed, leaving women feeling isolated and ill-prepared to manage its effects on their daily lives.

Introducing the GenM M-Tick

The world’s first menopause friendly symbol has launched, designed to highlight products and services that may help to support menopause symptoms.

Following a trial in 500 Boots stores and online at Boots.com, the symbol is now being made widely available to 70 partner brands of GenM, including Co-Op, Next and QVC.

Named the M-tick, the symbol will be used on ‘menopause-friendly’ products that may help to support the 48 menopause symptoms such as brittle nails, fatigue, night sweats, and joint pain.

GenM was launched by friends Heather Jackson and Sam Simister who were frustrated by conflicting information and impractical advice offered by brands with regards to menopause symptoms.

They set up GenM to inspire brands and organisations to better serve the menopause through menopause-friendly products, services, workplace policies and marketing campaigns.

The new M-tick aims to make it easy for consumers to find suitable products, providing them with a wealth of choice to take control of their menopause in the way that best suits them.

The initiative was developed in response to GenM research that shockingly revealed only one third (36 per cent) of menopausal women find it easy to navigate menopause-friendly products in-store.

Additionally, nine in 10 (91 per cent) have never seen any marketing for them, and 90 per cent wish brands were more inclusive to the menopause.

The M-tick launched in 500 Boots store across the UK as well as Boots online in October 2022.

It was applied to more than 100 products and services available in Boots, including some of its own brand products, and is now set to be rolled out at GenM’s other partners including brands such as Marks and Spencer.

Heather Jackson, co-founder of GenM said: 'We call menopause ‘the change’ because it can change everything when you go through it, from nutrition to cosmetics, and even the clothes you might wear.

'Many at this life stage are busy and time poor, so the symbol helps to signpost suitable products easily and simply. It’s also important to remember that, while HRT is a great option for some, it is not a silver bullet for menopause and it doesn’t work for everyone. In fact, GenM’s Opportunity Report revealed that 49 per cent of menopausal women have no intention of taking HRT at all, so it is vital that those who don’t use it (for whatever reason) are also able to easily access helpful products.'

She pointed out the money and effort that has gone into catering for the vegan market, such as the use of the vegan V-tick on products, despite less than four per cent of the UK following this lifestyle choice, compared to 20 per cent of the population who are going through the menopause.

'This audience is just as deserving of signposting to products, informative and uplifting campaigns, and an improved customer experience,' said Heather, adding: 'We founded GenM after beginning "the change" and being shocked by the lack of information and support available from the brands around us. Two years on, it’s thrilling to see the amazing progress that is being made.'

Sam Simister, co-founder of GenM said: 'We’re so grateful to our founding partner Boots for spearheading this industry-changing initiative, and we’re looking forward to seeing the fantastic progress that will be made by many more of our partners as they begin to implement the M-tick in future, where relevant.

'Most people don’t need to go to the doctors during puberty. We all understand the hormonal and bodily changes of this period and are aware that it might impact their mood and behaviour. It should be the same with the menopause – you and the people around you should be ready for it.

'My co-founder Heather always says, "you wouldn’t run a marathon in a pair of slippers" so why are we letting so many people enter the biggest marathon of their lives physically, mentally and emotionally unprepared? We’re proud to be partnered with 70 pioneering brands like Boots who are committed to playing their part in improving the menopause experience.

Benefits of the M-Tick for Women in Menopause

1. Personalised Recommendations: The M-Tick offers personalised guidance based on an individual's specific symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences. This ensures that women receive tailored advice and recommendations that suit their unique needs, enhancing the likelihood of finding the most effective products and services to manage their menopause symptoms.

2. Comprehensive Resource: With a vast database of products and services, the M-Tick serves as a one-stop resource for women seeking support during menopause. It provides a holistic range of options, including both traditional and alternative approaches, allowing women to explore various avenues and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

3. Evidence-based Information: The M-Tick's recommendations are based on scientific research, user experiences, and expert insights. By relying on evidence-based information, women can feel confident that the suggested products and services have undergone rigorous evaluation and are likely to be safe and effective.

4. Continuous Updates: Menopause research and treatment options are constantly evolving. The M-Tick ensures that women stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field, regularly updating its recommendations based on emerging scientific evidence and user feedback. This dynamic approach enables women to access the most relevant and effective solutions available.

5. Community Support: The M-Tick fosters a sense of community by connecting women in menopause, allowing them to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. By creating a supportive environment, the M-Tick encourages women to seek advice, engage in discussions, and access peer support, alleviating the feelings of isolation often associated with menopause.

Conclusion

GenM's M-Tick is an invaluable tool that aims to empower women during the menopausal transition by signposting them to the best products and services available to support their unique needs. By providing personalised recommendations, evidence-based information, and a comprehensive resource of menopause-related solutions, the M-Tick helps women navigate this transformative stage of life with confidence and improved well-being. Through its innovative approach, GenM is driving positive change, ensuring that women receive the support and guidance they deserve throughout their menopausal journey.