Research into menopause and perimenopause is vastly improving. This means that while we may have always associated mood swings and hot flushes with these life changes, we have learned that they can actually fundamentally change the body.
While this is very hopeful for future generations of women, a new survey conducted by Holland and Barrett in partnership with Menopause Mandate has found that 46% of women are still having perimenopause and menopause symptoms dismissed by other women.
Additionally, the research found an age disparity with younger women entering perimenopause feeling the most isolated. Over half (51% of 30–44-year-olds have reported symptom doubt, compared to 40 per cent of those aged 55 or over.
Women are dedicating an average of 2.3 hours a week to ‘menopause admin’
Beyond managing their symptoms, women are dedicating on average over two hours a week to menopause admin. This includes:
Menopause comes with a range of symptoms including difficulty concentrating, electric shocks on the skin, vaginal atrophy and recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs).
A full range of potential menopause symptoms can be found on The Menopause Charity’s website but it’s fair to say, we are likely dismissing one another’s symptoms because we simply don’t know the extent of the changes menopause can bring.
Laura Biggs, Founding Director at Menopause Mandate, comments: “Perimenopause and menopause can affect women in very different ways, and symptoms can change over time. It’s so important that women know what they might experience and can find help and support when they need it.
“Since launching in 2022, the Menopause Mandate nurse helpline has offered free advice from trained professionals.”
