Thermaband- a bracelet powered by artificial intelligence software to manage women’s menopause issues. The bracelet monitors the wearer’s temperature. Also, it delivers a cooling sensation, if it detects a hot flush in the body. Alternatively, it can provide heat as well.
Debbie Dickinson, a former executive for healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson worked with a team of doctors, engineers and scientists to come up with the wristband and connected app called Thermaband.
Meanwhile- the wristband tracks heart rate and blood pressure. The Thermaband is due to go on sale this year. Debbie’s daughter Markea is also involved in the project helping her mother.
I was at home and felt very puzzled
According to the BBC report, Debbie-55 years old went through problems after menopause. She said, ‘’ I was at home and felt very puzzled. I didn’t know what was going on in my body. But then I had an Ah-ha moment. I realised something major was happening. That something was menopause.’’
Debbie sought advice from older women but didn’t feel prepared for this stage of life. She believes there is so little understanding and education about menopause. She says,’’ A lot of this is down to stigma and ageism when it’s just very natural.”
However, wide coverage from the last few years has led to a growing number of tech firms entering the sector. These companies are often led by women introducing new products. The sector also includes supporting dietary supplements and hormonal treatment.
Dr Phillipa Kay, GP and menopause expert believes most tech companies are empowering women. She says, ‘’ “When it comes to information, if it’s good and verified then that’s great. Information is power,” she says. “Apps that track symptoms can be useful as people aren’t always aware of all the potential symptoms, and it helps connect the dots for people.
Meanwhile, Andrea Berchowitz, co-founder of UK menopause app, Stella says, ‘’ Tech in women’s health is still mainly centred about fertility and period tracking.’’ Andrea says they must be personalised based on specific needs. She says “Someone might experience difficulty sleeping, another might need a different approach if they have low mood and incontinence”.
Debbie is very optimistic about Thermaband making a real difference. She believes it alleviates discomfort. She says, ‘’ It’s just a more comfortable experience to navigate.”
