Menopause clinical trials test new treatments for menopausal symptoms — including HRT, non-hormonal options and women’s health research — and some pay participants for their time. With around 13 million women in the UK estimated to be peri- or menopausal, demand for better treatments is high, and post-menopausal women are also sought for paid research studies. This guide explains who can take part, what you can earn, and how to find a genuine study.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is for women going through perimenopause or menopause who are interested in research studies, and for post-menopausal women considering paid clinical trials. It explains what menopause trials involve, eligibility, pay, and how to apply safely.
What are menopause clinical trials?
Menopause clinical trials are controlled studies that test new ways to treat or manage menopause and its symptoms. They may involve new forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), non-hormonal treatments for hot flushes and other symptoms, treatments for bone or heart health after menopause, or research into how existing treatments affect quality of life. UK studies such as the NIHR-funded ESTEEM trial, for example, are investigating whether adding testosterone to standard HRT improves menopausal symptoms.
Two types of menopause study
It helps to understand the difference between the two kinds of study you might come across:
- Treatment studies recruit women experiencing menopausal symptoms to test new or improved treatments. These often provide the treatment and monitoring free, and may cover expenses.
- Paid volunteer studies specifically recruit post-menopausal women for early-phase research. Because this is a narrower group, these studies often pay more to meet recruitment targets.
Who can take part in a menopause trial?
Eligibility depends on the specific study. Common criteria include:
- Being peri-, post- or fully menopausal, depending on the study
- Being within a certain age range
- Current symptoms, such as hot flushes or low mood
- Whether you currently use HRT
- General health and other medical history
Each trial sets out its full inclusion and exclusion criteria in the participant information sheet before you consent.
Do menopause clinical trials pay?
It varies by study type. Treatment studies run by the NHS or universities often provide treatment free and cover travel expenses only. Paid volunteer studies for post-menopausal women, often run by private clinical research units, may compensate for time and inconvenience — ranging from a few hundred pounds up to £3,000 or more for studies with residential stays. For a full breakdown, see our guide to the best-paid clinical trials.
Where are menopause trials run?
Menopause and women’s health studies run across the UK through NHS trusts, universities and private research units. Paid volunteer studies for post-menopausal women are regularly recruited at London units such as Parexel. You can also compare paid studies across the capital in our guide to paid clinical trials in London.
How do you find a menopause clinical trial?
- Search a registered source. Use the UK’s Be Part of Research service or the WHO registry.
- Speak to your GP or menopause specialist. They may know of suitable studies and can advise whether taking part is right for you.
- Complete the eligibility screening. You’ll answer questions about your menopausal status, symptoms and health.
- Read the participant information sheet for what’s involved, any compensation, and your right to withdraw.
Are menopause clinical trials safe?
UK menopause trials operate under strict safeguards: every study must be authorised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and approved by an independent research ethics committee, as the NHS explains. You are monitored by medical staff throughout and can withdraw at any time, without giving a reason. Our guide to clinical trial safety and compensation covers the protections in more depth.
The bottom line
Menopause clinical trials offer access to new treatments and, for post-menopausal women, a paid research opportunity. Use a registered source, confirm the study is MHRA-approved, never pay to take part, and read the information sheet before you consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do menopause clinical trials pay?
Some do. Treatment studies often provide treatment free and cover expenses, while paid volunteer studies for post-menopausal women may pay from a few hundred to several thousand pounds.
Why are post-menopausal women paid more for some trials?
Post-menopausal women are a narrower group to recruit for early-phase research, so some studies offer higher compensation to meet recruitment targets. The payment reflects time and inconvenience, not risk.
Can I join a menopause trial if I’m on HRT?
It depends on the study. Some recruit women already using HRT, while others require you not to be. The criteria will make this clear.
Are menopause clinical trials safe?
Yes. They are MHRA-authorised, ethics-approved and medically supervised throughout. You can withdraw at any time.
How do I find a menopause trial near me?
Use the NHS Be Part of Research service, ask your GP or menopause specialist, or compare studies through CheckMyTrial.
Find clinical trials near you
CheckMyTrial helps you compare clinical trials across the UK by location, condition and study type. Browse current trials or read how clinical trials work before you apply.