Menopause research reveals critical gaps between women and healthcare providers

New survey results highlight a striking disconnect between women and healthcare professionals when it comes to menopause, with many women enduring symptoms in silence.

Findings from a poll of around 1,000 American women aged 40–70 show that one in three never discuss menopause symptoms with a healthcare provider, pointing to deep communication barriers.

The research—commissioned by Bayer and carried out by The Harris Poll—looked at both women’s lived experiences and how providers perceive menopause care in the U.S.

Among those who didn’t seek medical advice, 34 per cent said they believed their symptoms were simply “normal for their age,” underscoring the lack of education around what to expect and when to seek help.

The survey revealed a major mismatch in perceptions. While 78 per cent of providers believed patients understood the link between menstrual changes and menopause, only 31 per cent of women reported being aware of that connection.

Common symptoms reported included weight gain (51 per cent), waking at night (48 per cent), hot flashes (44 per cent), mood changes (41 per cent), and reduced sexual desire (40 per cent).

Dr Angie Lee, executive medical director at Bayer Women’s Healthcare, U.S. Medical Affairs, said: “Conducting regular research, such as surveys, is a useful tool in understanding the experiences and needs of women and those who provide their care. With current insights, we can better work together to advance how we deliver menopause care and tailored symptom management strategies to improve the experience of the menopause transition.”

She added: “There are other milestones in women’s lives where, due to proactive provider education and public information, women may feel more prepared. We should aspire to place menopause education and awareness as part of the core talk track in women’s health.”

When women did seek care, 41 per cent said they wanted reassurance that their symptoms were normal, while 33 per cent said their quality of life was affected, and 32 per cent were looking for treatment options.

The gap between perception and practice extended to providers’ approach as well. While 73 per cent of healthcare providers said they typically initiate menopause discussions around age 45, half of women surveyed said they had to bring up the topic themselves.

Fewer than half of providers (47 per cent) used intake forms or other tools to consistently track menopause symptoms, even though nearly all providers (98 per cent) and most women (89 per cent) agreed the symptoms warranted medical attention.

The study points to clear opportunities to improve how menopause is addressed in routine care—particularly through earlier education and more structured symptom tracking.

The surveys were conducted online between July and August 2024 and included responses from 1,007 women who are currently in or past menopause, along with 606 healthcare providers, including specialists in obstetrics, gynaecology, family medicine, and primary care.