Researching Information Support, and equity During the Menopause Transition in Canada (Can-RISE) Study

Menopause occurs when menstrual periods have stopped for 12 months in a row. All women, transgender, and non-binary people who were born with ovaries will experience menopause, whether it occurs naturally (usually between 40 and 50 years old) or surgically (when the ovaries are removed or after chemotherapy).

Starting in a women’s 40s, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. Some people notice physical, emotional, or cognitive changes, while others notice few or no changes at all. For some, these menopausal symptoms can affect daily life, including their work or relationships. Access to care and support during the menopause transition also differs from person to person. Some people may be unsure where to find information. Also more rural and remote areas may have fewer healthcare providers and resources available to support women. As a result, experiences during the menopause transition are different for everyone.

The Can-RISE Study is led by a Canada-wide team of researchers brought together through the Partnership for Women’s Health Research Canada and supported by the Women’s Health Collective Canada. The team includes scientists with expertise in different areas of women’s, transgender, and non-binary health including sex and gender analysis, menopause and the menopausal transition, sexual health, reproductive health, chronic conditions, aging, equity, access to care, health research methods, and knowledge sharing.

Meet our team+

Dr. Sofia Ahmed, Co-Investigator, Professor, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Calgary, Women and Children’s Health Research Institute

Dr. Lori Brotto, Principal Investigator, Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Women’s Health Research Institute

Dr. Justine Dol, Co-Investigator, Accelerate Chair in Women+ Health, IWK Health

Dr. Iulia Iatan, Co-Investigator, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, McGill University, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute

Dr. Tamil Kendall, Co-Investigator, Adjunct Professor, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Director, Partnership for Women’s Health Research Canada

Dr. Colleen Norris, Co-Investigator, Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Women and Children’s Health Research Institute

Dr. Alexis Reeves, Co-Investigator, Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Scientist, Research and Innovation Institute at Women’s College Hospital

Jordan Chin, Can-RISE Research Coordinator

Sabina Dobrer, Statistician, Women’s Health Research Institute

Nicole Prestley, Knowledge Translation Manager, Women’s Health Research Institute