Most midlife women with menopause symptoms don’t seek care, research finds

More than 80 per cent of women with menopause symptoms do not seek medical help, despite the impact on daily life, according to new research.

The study surveyed nearly 5,000 women aged 45 to 60 across four Mayo Clinic primary care sites, finding that more than three-quarters had experienced symptoms affecting work productivity and overall wellbeing.

Conducted by the Mayo Clinic, the research found that menopause symptoms remain underrecognised, undertreated and inadequately addressed within the healthcare system, despite the availability of effective treatments.

Lead author Ekta Kapoor is an endocrinologist and menopause specialist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

The researcher said: “Menopause is universal for women at midlife, the symptoms are common and disruptive, and yet, few women are receiving care that could help them.

“This gap has real consequences for women’s health and quality of life, and it’s time we address it more proactively.”

More than one-third (34 per cent) the survey respondents reported moderate to very severe symptoms.

Sleep disturbances and weight gain were among the most common issues, affecting more than half of participants.

Only about one in four women were receiving treatment at the time of the survey.

While some preferred to manage symptoms independently, others said they were too busy or unaware that effective treatments exist.

Without proper treatment, menopause symptoms can negatively affect sleep, mood and cognition, as well as productivity at work and home.

The study noted that women often do not raise menopause-related concerns during medical appointments.

Researchers emphasised the need for strategies to destigmatise menopause care and make it more visible and accessible.

Work is underway to develop questionnaires, digital tools and smartphone apps that help women identify symptoms, learn about treatment options and have more productive discussions with their healthcare professionals.

Dr Kapoor said: “Our goal is to educate women and healthcare professionals about menopause.

“By making it easier to recognise and understand symptoms, we can close the gap between need and care – and help midlife women live healthier, more fulfilling lives.”