Self-management of menopause and the role of social processes in menopause experience and impacts

Project overview

The menopause most commonly impacts women between the ages of 45 and 55 years of age, but symptoms can begin to occur before the onset of the menopause and can continue post menopause. Such symptoms include hot flushes, which are experienced by 70-80% of women, but additionally disturbed sleep, mood changes, impaired memory and concentration, joint aches, headaches, and vaginal dryness.

Whilst menopause is being discussed more frequently in the media, more research is needed to fully understand the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors that can influence how the menopause is experienced.

This project aims to take a biopsychosocial approach to better understand the range of factors that can impact a woman’s experience of the menopause. This understanding will allow us to research and promote ways in which we can help women not only to manage symptoms, but also to thrive during this transformational period.