NHS England has launched a market engagement exercise to investigate how technology can support women through the menopause, signalling a commitment to integrating digital solutions into this often underserved area of healthcare. The process focuses on digital therapeutics for the menopause and invites providers and tech developers to submit information on their capabilities, commercial strategies, and potential implementation hurdles. This preliminary consultation precedes a formal procurement process slated for later in 2026.
The engagement notice, published on 20 January 2026, relates specifically to “Digital Therapeutics for the Menopause.” This Request-for-Information (RFI) aims to inform NHS England’s commercial strategy for technology designed to aid in symptom management and self-care. Interested suppliers are encouraged to register and complete a questionnaire via the NHS e-sourcing portal to help shape the future specifications.
While this initial stage does not involve defined budgets or formal contract terms, it highlights NHS leaders’ intent to identify digital tools that can deliver genuine value within menopause care pathways. These solutions could encompass a range of technologies, from apps and online programmes to sophisticated clinical decision support systems and digital self-management resources, with the goal of building an evidence base before a national tender. Menopause affects millions of women in the UK, often causing disruptive symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep problems, mood swings, and cognitive issues that severely impact quality of life. Current care relies primarily on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and face-to-face support. However, service provision is often inconsistent, and quick access, particularly in primary care, can be difficult.
Early market engagement allows NHS England to ensure that digital tools—whether they are symptom trackers, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) modules, personalised self-care plans, or integrated consultation platforms—are procured and designed to align with both clinical needs and patient expectations. Such solutions are seen as particularly crucial in areas with limited specialist menopause services or long waiting lists. Independent initiatives are already taking shape in the digital menopause space, such as The Menopause Network, which connects patients with clinicians and specialists, and MENO.pause, a tool developed by UCLH clinicians that provides decision support for managing menopause symptoms according to national guidelines.
Digital solutions have the potential to expand the reach of services, empower women with tailored support, and ease the burden on in-person services, especially concerning proactive symptom management. Research indicates that evidence-based, user-centred digital health interventions can successfully improve symptom awareness, treatment adherence, and overall well-being. For successful deployment, careful consideration must be given to digital inclusion. Ensuring that tools are accessible to women across all age groups, technology skill levels, and socioeconomic backgrounds is critical. The design and procurement process must address issues such as language support, device accessibility, and confidentiality to avoid exacerbating existing health inequalities.
Stakeholders responding to the RFI are expected to address both the opportunities and barriers related to clinical evidence, integration with existing NHS systems, and long-term financial sustainability. This approach underscores a broader shift in the NHS towards co-designing healthcare innovation with industry, clinicians, and patients to ensure solutions are practical and effective.
As the formal tender approaches later in 2026, interest from digital health firms, clinicians, and women’s health advocates is expected to intensify. The ultimate aim is for evidence-based digital solutions to form a core part of a more comprehensive, responsive, and patient-centred menopause care pathway within the NHS.
