Menopause has Substantial Effect on Women’s Lives

Half of all women who experience the menopause say that it had a substantial effect on their lives, a new study by the Women’s Health Council of Ireland (WHC) has revealed.

The study, the largest ever carried out on the menopause in Ireland, also shows that many women have poor understanding of the menopause. Only 55% of women over 35 consider themselves “informed” about the menopause and 59% of women aged 35-54 would like more information on the menopause. Furthermore, the majority of women found it difficult to identify when exactly their menopause began and questioned whether their symptoms were real.

The top 4 menopause symptoms experienced by women were hot flushes, night sweats, irritability and mood swings. Yet, over half of all men surveyed claimed that women experience no symptoms or that they did not know of any symptoms. Just 7% of men feel informed about the menopause.

“As the menopause is a major event in a woman’s life, it is important that women are well informed and supported. GPs play a key role in providing services, but there is a need for more up-to-date information on the menopause and increased awareness of services,” said Ms Geralding Luddy, Director WHC.

Other findings include:

• HRT remains the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms.
• Regular, moderate physical activity was also shown to help relieve symptoms.
• Women of normal weight have fewer hot flushes than those who are overweight.
• Excessive drinking and smoking increases the likelihood of hot flushes.
• A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.
• There is no concrete evidence that herbal therapies are effective in relieving hot flushes.
• There are some indications that homeopathy and acupuncture may relieve symptoms.

For more information on the menopause visit www.whc.ie/menopause

Posted Monday 1st May 2008