Called “Cuidar-ME – Self-Care during Menopause: a psychological intervention to promote mental health and quality of life for women during (peri)menopause”, the digital program, accessible via computer or mobile phone with internet access, “offers practical strategies and information based on scientific evidence to promote self-care, well-being and quality of life during perimenopause and menopause”, UC said in a press release sent to the Lusa news agency today.

The research team from the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences of the University of Coimbra (FPCEUC), responsible for developing the digital tool, is testing it and notes that menopause and perimenopause “are natural phases of profound biological and emotional transition, constituting a significant developmental milestone during adulthood”. “The transition to menopause is a phase with many physical and psychological changes that can impact not only a woman and her well-being, but also her relationships in various contexts, such as personal and professional ones,” argued Ana Fonseca, a professor at FPCEUC and researcher at the Centre for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioural Intervention, as quoted in the note.

“Often, women experience this phase alone, without sharing what they feel or even understanding what is happening to them, because, unfortunately, this topic is still treated as taboo,” emphasised the specialist.

Ana Fonseca defended the importance of research specifically focused on this phase of the life cycle of adult women, recalling that the transition period to menopause “is frequently associated with symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and disturbances in overall quality of life.”

“Despite its impact on women's lives, psychological support is still scarce and difficult for most women to access.” Thus, the program “presents a digital and accessible solution that guides users in self-care and emotional regulation strategies, promoting practical skills to manage some of the symptoms of menopause.”

The “Cuidar-ME” program consists of eight modules that participants can complete at their own pace, with information, exercises, and strategies for managing anxiety, regulating mood, and acceptance, among other topics.

“It seeks to help women understand the changes they may be experiencing during the transition to or after menopause and help them find useful strategies to promote their well-being and mental health,” Ana Fonseca emphasised.

At the same time, the research team is conducting a study targeting women between 40 and 60 years of age who are in perimenopause or postmenopause and who live in Portugal, to assess the effectiveness and acceptability of this intervention.

“We seek to understand the experience of the program's users and assess whether, after participation, there are improvements in their well-being and mental health,” the professor stressed.