Female Firefighter Research
Does the menstrual cycle and menopause effect thermoregulation and perceptions of heat or effort?
Does the menstrual cycle and menopause effect thermoregulation and perceptions of heat or effort?
Get Involved?
Get Involved?
We are just starting a study looking at female firefighters thermoregulation at different mentsrual cycle stages and in menopause. The study involves walking in our heat chamber in full PPE, while we measure your physiological responses. The testing takes place in Eastbourne, at our Welkins Laboratories. If you are interested in taking part or just want to know more about it, please email us at the link below.
Worldwide Female Fighter Survey
Worldwide Female Fighter Survey
Our female firefighter health and wellbeing survey is due to be published soon. To summarise the findings we could conclude a few key things:
- Lack of understanding and information about effects of menstrual cycle and menopause with fire exposure. Also logistical and hygiene issues with lack of facilities.
- Concerns about longevity in the role, particualrly regarding maintaining strength and fitness standards.
- Issues with not being able to access female specific clothing and PPE, particuarly outside of the UK.
- Intimidation and sexism reported in some areas.
- Questions and concerns about fertility, conception, returning to work and breastfeeding
Read the full report here https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2019.02.003 if you do not have access to this and would like to read it, please just email us.