Sotenäs Municipality puts women’s health in focus with an evening on the menopause

Sotenäs Municipality wants women’s health to receive more attention and to spread knowledge about it. Yesterday, 14 October, the municipality and Region Västra Götaland invited residents to an evening on the menopause at Hav & Land in Hunnebostrand. Around 40 people came to listen, ask questions and meet the health centres in the municipality.

Why Sotenäs is investing in women’s health

The menopause affects half the population and often lasts for several years in the middle of working life. Yet knowledge about it is often limited, both among those going through it and among employers. Sleep problems, fatigue and brain fog are often read as stress or burnout, and many women do not get the right kind of support.

For Sotenäs Municipality, this is a question of equal health for its residents. It is also about the municipality as an employer: that employees feel well, and that experienced colleagues can stay in working life and enjoy their work.

“By increasing knowledge about the menopause, we can contribute to better health, greater wellbeing and a deeper understanding of how the different phases of life affect us.”

Sofia Sjögren, public health strategist, Sotenäs Municipality

An evening for the whole municipality

The municipality chose to open the evening to all employees and residents – regardless of gender and age. The menopause affects not only the person going through it, but also partners, family, colleagues and managers.

During the mingle, staff from Närhälsan’s health centre and Sotenäs health centre were on hand. Visitors could ask questions directly and find out where to turn in the municipality.

The lecture was given by Annelie, certified menopause coach and speaker at Helo Hälsa. She went through what happens in the body, what affects wellbeing during this phase of life, and what adjustments and support are available.

The initiative also looked inwards. On the same day as the lecture, the municipality’s managers took part in training on the menopause, to strengthen the municipality as an attractive and sustainable employer. With more knowledge, managers can more easily notice symptoms, hold supportive conversations with employees and make adjustments that contribute to a more inclusive work environment.

“It was a joy to meet such engaged and interested managers and residents – a municipality at the forefront, investing in sustainable health.”

Annelie, certified menopause coach and speaker at Helo Hälsa

About Sotenäs Municipality

Sotenäs Municipality lies in northern Bohuslän, on Sweden’s west coast, with towns such as Kungshamn, Smögen, Hunnebostrand and Väjern. The municipality pursues active, long-term public health work based on its sustainability strategy. The aim is to strengthen residents’ living conditions, promote healthy habits and prevent mental and social ill health.