MIC Menopause

The menopause is a natural process and for many can be positively managed through lifestyle adjustments and/or medical support. While some may not encounter any symptoms, supporting those with symptoms may enhance their experience at work and sense of positivity. The menopause should not be a taboo or ‘hidden’ subject and these Guidelines seek to give managers, staff and students the necessary signposting to unearth the subject and elevate supports. In 2024, MIC launched the MIC Menopause Guidelines for Staff and Students that sets out the steps for providing the right support to manage menopausal symptoms at work and study.

In May 2024, the Menopause Champions Network and Café were launched to offer MIC staff and student trained personnel as a contact to those experiencing symptoms of the menopause who would like support. 

If you would like support or a listening ear, please contact one of the following champions that include:

• Nicola Brennan
• Edel Foster
• Dr Suzanne Egan
• Kathleen Maher
• Prof. Lorraine McIlrath
• Elaine Murnane
• Dr Hannagh McGinley 
• Mary O’Brien
• Fiona O’Dwyer
• Ciara Ní Shúilleabháin

MIC and MISU provides self-care products in all toilets.

In addition, if you experience flooding, there are ‘Caught Out Kits’ located in the MIC Main Reception in Thurles and Limerick and the MISU in Thurles and Limerick.

If you feel that you might need a fan for your desk or study space at MIC, please email EDII@mic.ul.ie and one can be organised for you.

The Caught-Out Kit

The Caught-Out Kit contain:

• Wet wipe packs (1 per bag)
• Deodorant (1 per bag)
• Hand sanitiser (1 per bag)
• Disposable knickers (1 per bag)
• Sanctuary towels for heavy period

The Caught-Out Kits are located in the following:

Limerick Campus

• Tailteann Reception
• MISU Reception
• Founding Building Staff Toilets - middle drawer

Thurles Campus

• Staff Canteen Room 127 - press under staff drawers
• Student Union Office

The MIC Library is gathering books and resources to develop a menopause themed collection. To access the menopause collection, click on the link below.

MIC Library Health & Wellbeing - Menopause

All You Need to Know about Menopause by Catherine O’Keeffe is now available to borrow from the MIC Library as an electronic copy with unlimited access, and print copies are also available. 

Some of the books available in the Menopause library collection include:

• Me and My Menopausal Vagina, Jane Lewis
• Menopausing, Davina Mc Call
• Oestrogen Matters, Dr Avrum Bluming & Dr Louise Newson

Websites

The Menopause Hub

The Wellness Warrior

Women’s Health Concern

Gov.ie/Menopause

Menopause Support

Daisy Network

Videos

RCSI MyHealth: Living well through perimenopause and menopause

RCSI MyHealth: Menopause Part II – From Coping to Thriving

Event

National Menopause Summit 2024