NRAS to launch new Rheumatoid Arthritis & Menopause booklet on International Women’s Day
On International Women’s Day March 8th 2026, the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) will launch a new Rheumatoid Arthritis & Menopause booklet, which will be available to download or order in print free of charge. The resource addresses a long‑standing gap in support for women managing both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the menopause—two conditions that can overlap in complex and often confusing ways.
The booklet follows a 2024 NRAS study exploring women’s experiences of RA during menopause. The findings revealed a striking lack of clinical discussion: 93% of respondents said no healthcare professional had ever raised the topic with them. Many also reported unexpected or disruptive symptoms, including achy joints (18%), night sweats (70%) and significant social impact (36%).
Developed in collaboration with experts from the British Menopause Society, the booklet provides clear, evidence‑informed guidance to help women understand how hormonal changes may influence their RA and how to navigate conversations with healthcare teams.
A dedicated focus group of women with RA also shaped the resource, with many describing uncertainty about whether symptoms were linked to RA, menopause or both.
The project has also led to the creation of a new NRAS Menopause & RA Online JoinTogether Group, offering peer support and shared experience along side some healthcare and patient webinars which can be viewed through the NRAS website.
The new booklet represents an important step toward ensuring women feel informed, supported and heard during this pivotal stage of life.
Check out nras.org.uk/publications where it will be available from the 8th of March 2026.