Topic 3 Training Content and Delivery Guide

This training module introduces the medical and health dimensions of menopause, helping participants understand what happens in the body and how it may affect individuals in the workplace. It focuses on building foundational knowledge of menopause stages, symptom profiles, and health-related risks, especially musculoskeletal and cognitive aspects. The session combines structured input with interactive, reflective activities that challenge misconceptions, map symptoms, and explore evidence-based solutions. It is designed to shift menopause from a taboo to a topic of shared understanding and practical relevance at work.
Description

Step 1: Icebreaker: Myth or Fact? (15 mins)

  • Begin by engaging with a set of “Myth or Fact?” statements about menopause. Reflect on each statement, decide whether you believe it’s a myth or a fact, then check the correct answers and brief explanations.
  • Purpose: This activity challenges common misconceptions, reduces stigma, and opens up awareness of menopause realities.

Step 2: Key Definitions & Menopause Overview (15 mins)

  • Review the MITRA slide deck sections that introduce menopause stages, hormone changes, and typical symptoms.
  • Consider the key definitions (menopause, perimenopause, postmenopause) and note any concepts that are new or particularly relevant.

Step 3: Biology & Symptoms (15 mins)

  • Go through the slides exploring biological changes during menopause, with attention to physical, psychological, and cognitive symptoms.
  • Reflect on how these changes might affect health, wellbeing, and everyday life.

Step 4: Symptom Mapping Activity  (30 mins)

  • Use the Symptom Mapping Worksheet, which includes a body outline and a categorized list of symptoms.
  • Indicate which symptoms you recognize, have experienced, or have observed in others. You can mark these on the body outline or simply tick/list them.
  • Feel free to add any additional symptoms not listed, as experiences can vary widely.

Step 5: Wrap-Up & Key Takeaway (15 mins)

  • Take a moment to identify one insight, strategy, or practical action you want to remember or apply in the future, whether at work, home, or in supporting others.
  • Summing up reinforces learning and encourages practical engagement with menopause awareness.

Key Concepts:

  • Menopause stages: perimenopause, menopause, postmenopause
  • Menopause symptoms: physical, psychological, cognitive
  • Common myths and facts about menopause
  • Personal and workplace impacts of menopausal symptoms

Empowering actions and supportive practices
Required materials
Facilitator tips
Use clear, non-technical language. Define medical terms briefly and accessibly. Encourage openness and respect during personal sharing/reflections. Facilitate myth-busting with supportive explanation, aiming to reduce stigma. Draw connections between symptoms and workplace relevance; emphasize practical supports. Keep activities interactive and paced to maintain attention and participation. For virtual sessions: use breakout rooms for small group symptom mapping or discussion; use chat for Myth or Fact responses. Prompt participants to reflect personally or supportively, acknowledging diverse experiences including male and younger participants.
Adaptations and variations
Shorter sessions: Focus on Myth or Fact icebreaker, slide overview, and a brief symptom mapping reflection. Virtual delivery: Use digital polls, annotation tools, and breakout rooms; record sessions if appropriate. Advanced groups: Add discussion of medical treatment options from slides or recent research; encourage sharing of workplace policy ideas. Anonymous participation: Use anonymous questions or polls to encourage sharing on sensitive symptoms.
Previous Lesson
Back to Course
Next Lesson