New course strengthens midwives’ expertise in menopause care
The demand for specialised, evidence-based menopause care is increasing across Sweden. Registration has now opened for Karolinska Institutet’s new professional education course, which provides midwives with expertise to develop and lead menopause care in their own organisations—in line with the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare’s new national guidelines.
"Menopause care in Sweden is currently fragmented in many respects. People going through menopause often encounter care that is unevenly distributed. Knowledge, treatment approaches, accessibility, and available interventions vary depending on healthcare provider and region. With this course, we aim to provide midwives across the country with in-depth, up-to-date, and practically applicable knowledge that makes a real difference in patient care", says Eva Elvin, course director, midwife, and Senior Lecturer at the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health at Karolinska Institutet.
Evidence-based distance education
The course Menopause expertise for midwives is aimed at licensed midwives working in midwifery clinics and gynecological care units. Its purpose is to strengthen the quality and equity of care for women during menopause. The course is delivered in Swedish, entirely online at a 25% pace over one term and comprises 7.5 credits at an advanced level. The course set-up is designed for practicing midwives across Sweden and can be combined with full-time employment.
The curriculum covers both medical and psychosocial aspects of menopause. Participants will gain advanced knowledge in endocrinology, physiology, and psychology, as well as medical treatment options including both local and systemic hormone therapy. Self-care, lifestyle factors, mental well-being, and sexual health during and after menopause are also addressed.
A key focus is on menopause counselling, professional conduct, and communication methods, strengthening the midwife’s role in person-centred and structured conversations with women at different stages of menopause.
Based on new national guidelines
The course has been developed in accordance with the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare’s new national guidelines for the care of menopausal symptoms. As a result, participants gain up-to-date specialist knowledge that can be directly applied in clinical practice.
"Interest in menopause care has increased significantly in recent years, not least in connection with the new national guidelines. Midwives play a key role in this area. By strengthening their expertise, we can contribute to more evidence-based, accessible, and equitable care for women experiencing menopause", says Eva Elvin.