Overview
Doctors at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) and University College London have introduced an innovative app named MENO.pause to aid healthcare professionals in managing menopause symptoms for their patients.
Key Features of MENO.pause
- Utilizes guidelines from reputable organizations such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), British Menopause Society (BMS), and British Gynaecological Cancer Society (BGCS).
- Offers evidence-based treatment options for clinicians.
- Developed in collaboration with the technology platform Clinibee, which enhances clinical pathways and decision-making.
Launch Details
The app was first made available at UCLH on 30 April 2025 and officially launched on 23 July 2025.
Expert Insights
Dr. Shibani Nicum, an honorary medical oncologist at UCLH and the project lead for MENO.pause, stated:
βWe are committed to providing the highest quality menopause care across the country and are delighted to have launched the MENO.pause app, which translates national menopause guidance into clear, step-by-step decision-making support.β
Target Audience and Benefits
The app is designed for use in both primary care and hospital settings, aiming to:
- Improve access to quality menopause advice.
- Reduce unnecessary tests and hospital visits.
- Assist clinicians in managing various menopause-related issues, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) decisions and unscheduled bleeding.
Functionality
During patient consultations, clinicians can:
- Answer a series of questions regarding the patient’s symptoms and medical history.
- Input any known genetic variations.
- Receive tailored treatment options based on the input data and established guidelines.
Integration with Existing Systems
MENO.pause is compatible with existing healthcare data systems, such as Optum, allowing clinicians to seamlessly incorporate it into their usual workflows.
Funding and Support
The development of the app was funded by:
- North Central London Cancer Alliance
- UCLH Charity
- BGCS
- An unrestricted grant from GSK
Conclusion
With approximately 13 million women currently experiencing menopause in the UK and a shortage of trained specialists, MENO.pause aims to enhance the quality of care and empower women in their menopause journey.