Menopause Products: What Works, What’s a Scam—A Doctor Explains

The Rising Cost of “Menopause Inc.” and How to Spot a Scam

The market surrounding menopause is booming, projected to reach $24.35 billion by 2030, up from $17.79 billion in 2024. This surge in products and services aimed at women experiencing perimenopause and menopause – the period after a woman’s last menstrual period – has also brought with it a rise in misleading marketing and outright scams. Dr. Lisa Larkin, a board-certified internist and women’s health expert, is sounding the alarm about what she calls “meno profiteering,” urging women to approach new products with skepticism and prioritize evidence-based care.

For decades, hormone therapy was a mainstay of menopause management. However, the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative study dramatically shifted prescribing practices, leading to a generation of doctors unfamiliar with the benefits and risks of hormone therapy. This void in medical knowledge has left many women searching for solutions on their own, making them vulnerable to products with unsubstantiated claims. Dr. Larkin, founder and CEO of Ms.Medicine, a national women’s health company, has spent over 32 years practicing medicine and witnessed this shift firsthand.

Supplements: Expensive Urine or Hidden Risks?

Dr. Larkin’s biggest concern lies with supplements. A key red flag is the term “proprietary blend” on ingredient lists. This phrase indicates that the manufacturer isn’t disclosing the specific quantities of each ingredient, making it impossible to know what you’re actually consuming. While supplements are generally safe for healthy individuals, they’re often little more than an expensive waste of money.

The risk escalates for women with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications. The interaction between supplements and prescription drugs is largely unknown, potentially leading to harmful consequences. For example, a breast cancer survivor on multiple medications could experience unforeseen side effects from combining them with unregulated supplements. In these cases, Dr. Larkin strongly advises against purchasing supplements online and emphasizes the importance of consulting a physician.

Beauty Products: Focus on What Works

When it comes to beauty products marketed for menopausal skin, Dr. Larkin is less concerned about safety, but cautions against unnecessary spending. She advises focusing on products with proven benefits, rather than falling for expensive marketing hype. If a product feels good and smells pleasant, it’s fine to use, but don’t expect miraculous results.

Sexual Health: Where Evidence Exists

Unlike many other areas of the menopause market, there is solid evidence supporting the use of vaginal moisturizers and lubricants. Dr. Larkin explains that vaginal moisturizers can be used similarly to facial moisturizers – regular application can alleviate dryness and discomfort. Products containing hyaluronic acid are particularly effective. Water-based or silicone-based lubricants can also provide relief during sexual activity.

However, Dr. Larkin warns against unproven treatments like vaginal lasers or steaming. While these procedures are unlikely to cause harm, she believes they are largely ineffective and capitalize on women’s vulnerabilities.

Over-the-Counter Hormone Tests: Data Overload

The growing popularity of at-home hormone tests reflects a broader trend towards self-tracking and data-driven health management. However, Dr. Larkin dismisses their usefulness, stating, “You don’t necessitate those tests.” Hormone levels fluctuate significantly throughout the perimenopause-to-menopause transition, making a single snapshot in time unreliable. While these tests aren’t harmful, they provide little meaningful information and can create unnecessary anxiety.

What to Look For: Green Flags and Expert Guidance

So, how can women navigate this complex landscape and identify products that might actually be helpful? Dr. Larkin suggests looking for products backed by scientific data or publications, though this can be challenging for consumers. Choosing single-ingredient products over those with “proprietary blends” is another good strategy. Most importantly, she stresses the importance of discussing any new products or treatments with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Filling the Healthcare Gap

Dr. Larkin emphasizes that the current surge in menopause-related products is, in part, a response to a gap in healthcare. Women often fall through the cracks between the ages of 40 and 60, lacking consistent medical contact during a time when cardiovascular risk and prediabetes can develop. She urges women to advocate for their own health and seek out physicians who can provide evidence-based care.

Finding a knowledgeable physician is crucial. The lack of comprehensive menopause education for doctors between 2002 and 2024 has left many ill-equipped to address the unique needs of women in midlife. Dr. Larkin’s work through Ms.Medicine aims to address this gap by advancing high-quality women’s healthcare and empowering women to take control of their health.

What comes next: The conversation around menopause is evolving, and ongoing research is crucial to better understand the long-term effects of hormone therapy and the efficacy of new treatments. Women should remain vigilant, prioritize evidence-based care, and advocate for their health needs.