Autoimmune disease and menopause – where do they intersect?

Dr Natasha Ung¹

¹Rheumatologist and General Physician, Royal North Shore Hospital’s Complex Menopause Clinic

Biography

Dr Natasha Ung is a dual‑trained rheumatologist and general physician whose career spans leading hospitals across New South Wales. She is a staff specialist in the Royal North Shore Hospital’s Complex Menopause Clinic and also practises privately. Dr Ung is the first known Australian rheumatologist to work within a dedicated multidisciplinary menopause team, bringing a unique lens to the intersection of rheumatology, women’s health, and midlife hormonal care.Autoimmune disease and menopause – where do they intersect?

Abstract

This presentation will examine the intersection of menopause and autoimmunity, highlighting how hormonal transitions—particularly the decline in estrogen—reshape immune regulation and influence the course of autoimmune rheumatic diseases, and vice versa. The session will emphasize practical, evidence‑based approaches to support women experiencing both menopause and autoimmune disease.