Menopause – Understanding the impact on women and their partners

Abstract

Objective To provide a greater understanding of the expectations, symptoms and impact of the menopause among women and their partners. Study design Three online surveys were conducted among women aged ≥45 years with menopause symptoms (currently or within previous 10 years). Two questionnaires focussed on symptoms and treatments and were conducted before (Survey 1, 2015; n = 1000) and after (Survey 2, 2016, n = 1000) publication of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) menopause guidelines. Survey 3 (2017) focussed on the psychosocial impact of the menopause and was also conducted among partners (women n = 650; partners n = 350). Results Women experienced an average of seven symptoms; 42% reported them to be worse than expected. Approximately one-fifth of women were not expecting common symptoms, such as sleep disturbance and cognitive problems, and were uncertain how long symptoms could last. A significant proportion of women reported negative effects on work and relationships. There was a reluctance to talk openly about the menopause or consult a healthcare professional (HCP). Partners expressed a desire to provide support but were unsure how to do so. Often women felt isolated and 41% considered the information and support available to them was insufficient. Only 3% of women were aware of the NICE guidelines but the majority (66%) were interested in learning more. Conclusions These findings underscore the knowledge gaps and lack of support for women impacted by the menopause. Improved HCP training and education is required to ensure that high-quality menopause support can be accessed as standard.

An online survey of postmenopausal women to determine their attitudes and knowledge of the menopause

“…Other studies have had similar findings such as the survey by Currey et al which revealed that the menopause had impacted around half of the respondents’ home life; 23% of the women reported feeling isolated from their family, 15% feeling they were a burden and 11% feeling that they were a better parent before the menopause. 29 In the CLOSER survey, 39% of men reported that impact of menopause on their intimate relationships was worse than they anticipated. 30 The MATE survey also demonstrated the impact menopausal symptoms can have on a woman’s partner with 63% of the men in the survey reporting they had been affected by menopausal symptoms.…”

Assessing young adults' menopause knowledge to increase understanding of symptoms and help improve quality of life for women going through menopause; a student survey

“…Menopause, with its many complications, has adverse effects on the quality of life of women and places strain on their relationships, especially with their partners [ 9 , 26 ]. A study by Currie and Moger which surveyed women 45 years of age or greater with menopause symptoms and their partners found that the physical and emotional effects of menopause affect women’s social life, professional lives, and relationships [ 27 ]. These women reported more frequent arguments with family members, feelings of isolation, negative impacts on sex life, missed work and decreased enjoyment in social interactions due to their symptoms.…”

Support Mechanisms for Women during Menopause: Perspectives from Social and Professional Structures

“…Emotional support from spouses plays a significant role in mitigating depression and anxiety during menopause [24]. In a study conducted in the UK, most spouses (73%) expressed a desire to help their partner through menopause, but 38% felt helpless in providing support [17]. Some men reported confusion about coping strategies and emotional support [25], and some spouses thought that non-intervention was the best support strategy, especially when their wives were experiencing emotional fluctuations [15,20].…”