Navigating Menopause: Support groups for Nigerian women

Menopause is a point in time when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. It happens, on average, at age 52. It’s a natural process that occurs when your ovaries stop producing reproductive hormones. When menopause happens due to surgery or medical treatment, it’s called induced menopause.

 Menopause is a stage of life in a woman where she can get confused and feel isolated. Most times, discussions about menopause are limited in many communities, leaving women to manage physical and emotional changes with little guidance.

Health experts note that symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disruption, fatigue, mood swings and anxiety can affect women during this stage. Yet awareness about the condition and the support available remains relatively low.

In response, several organisations and advocacy groups have begun creating platforms that provide menopause support Nigerian women can rely on. These groups focus on education, health awareness and community engagement aimed at helping women better understand the transition and manage its effects.

Below are top menopause support groups in Nigeria.

Menopausal Community Support Initiative (MCSI)

The Menopausal Community Support Initiative is a non governmental organisation focused on educating and sensitising women about menopause. The organisation also provides health and material support to women, particularly in Lagos and parts of West Africa.

Menopause Support Initiative (MSI)

Founded by Pharmacist Mosunmola Dosumu, the Menopause Support Initiative focuses on public awareness campaigns. The organisation also conducts health checks and community walks aimed at educating women about menopausal health.

Meno Haven

Meno Haven is known for organising health walks under the theme “Steps That Break the Silence.” The group also provides a safe space for women to discuss menopause and receive peer support.

Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF)

WARIF offers workshops and educational programmes that provide both medical and mental health support for women experiencing menopausal symptoms.

Serifat Ajala Menopause Foundation

This foundation focuses on awareness campaigns that aim to reshape perceptions about menopause. It encourages women to view the stage as an opportunity for reinvention and personal growth.

Smile Women’s Health

Smile Women’s Health provides reproductive health services and education to help women manage the physical changes associated with menopause.

Action Health Incorporated (AHI)

Action Health Incorporated is involved in comprehensive women’s health education, promoting better access to healthcare information and services for women at different stages of life.

Synlab Nigeria

Synlab Nigeria provides specialised medical support services and a 24 hour customer care system for women seeking health guidance related to menopause.

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