Women are being targeted on social media with advertising for products claiming to address the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, a Senate inquiry has revealed. However, the inquiry has highlighted that many of these product claims are not necessarily „substantiated“.
Ads for products promising to alleviate the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause have inundated social media platforms, creating what has been described as a „shameful marketing war zone“ where many claims remain unsubstantiated. Herbal supplement tablets, patches, teas, powdered drink supplements, cooling mists, and herbal enemas are among the numerous products marketed to women during this stage of life.
The prevalence of advertising in the digital space has increased due to data-tracking technology, allowing companies to tailor ads to individual users. This issue was discussed at a recent Adelaide hearing of the Senate inquiry into menopause and perimenopause, where Women’s Gynaecology Research Centre director Martha Hickey expressed concerns about the lack of substantiated claims made by manufacturers.
Senator Marielle Smith, who chaired the inquiry’s Adelaide hearing, shared her own experience of being bombarded with targeted advertising for menopause products on social media. She emphasized the overwhelming nature of these ads and how they can mislead women seeking help during this transitional phase of life.
Australian author Kaz Cooke, who surveyed 9,000 Australian women on their experiences of menopause and perimenopause for her book „It’s The Menopause,“ criticized the marketing tactics used for these products. She highlighted the lack of evidence supporting the formulations of these products and called out influencer advertising as particularly concerning.
In Australia, therapeutic products are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which operates on a two-tiered system. Registered products undergo evaluation for efficacy, while listed products may not be assessed for efficacy and often make low-level health claims.
Professor Hickey emphasized the lack of evidence-based clinical guidelines for managing menopause in Australia, leading to conflicting information for healthcare workers and the public. She stressed the importance of empowering women with accurate information, access to empathetic clinicians, and supportive workplaces to navigate this stage of life effectively.
While banning advertising of unregistered menopause products on social media is one potential response, Professor Hickey advocated for a more holistic approach that focuses on empowering women with the necessary information and support. The Senate inquiry is ongoing, with the committee set to deliver its recommendations next month.
In conclusion, the issue of misleading advertising targeting women experiencing menopause and perimenopause symptoms is a significant concern that requires attention and action. By addressing the lack of substantiated claims, providing evidence-based information, and supporting women through this life stage, we can ensure a more informed and empowered approach to managing menopausal transitions.