Development of a menopause education programme for women with a learning disability

Menopause affects every woman however those with an intellectual disability experience it earlier than the general population. Women with an intellectual disability also experience disparities in health services and information. Despite a recognised need, there are currently no established evidence-based education programmes to support women with an intellectual disability to prepare for menopause. This study aimed to develop, deliver and design a menopause education programme to women with an intellectual disability in the community setting. Additionally, the study aimed to identify any adaptions required within the programme and evaluation methods, to enhance its acceptability from the perspectives of women with an intellectual disability. A rapid review of menopause education programmes, alongside a public and patient involvement exercise informed the initial education programme design. An experimental study was conducted. The co-designed education programme was delivered to 6 groups of women with an intellectual disability. Participants completed a pre and post evaluation of their knowledge of menopause and participated in focused groups to determine the acceptability of the programme and any adaptions needed. Forty-three women participated in the six-week programme within the community setting. Knowledge of menopause was evaluated pre- and post-completion of the education programme and demonstrated improvement. Women reported feeling prepared to navigate menopause and the appreciation of being supported in a group setting. Some adaptions to the programme were noted. Menopause education plays a key role in preparing women with an intellectual disability for going through menopause. Menopause education for women with an intellectual disability is key to reducing the health and wellbeing impacts that menopause has on this population. Provision of education within supportive environments and delivered through active learning approaches has the potential to enhance the confidence and dignity of women with an intellectual disability going through menopause in the short term.