The Lancet has published a groundbreaking four-paper series proposing a holistic approach to menopause management that extends beyond mere medical interventions. This new strategy emphasizes empowering women through comprehensive education on symptoms and treatment options, empathetic clinical care, and necessary adjustments in the workplace. Professor Martha Hickey of the University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital highlights the need to dispel the notion that menopause invariably signals a downturn in physical and mental health. Instead, she advocates for a societal shift in perception, viewing menopause as a natural aspect of healthy ageing, encouraging a more positive and less fearful approach to this life stage.
Professor Hickey stresses the importance of personalizing menopause management and advocating for informed choices through unbiased, accurate information. That includes discussions on menopause hormone therapy (MHT) for managing symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats, alongside considering non-medical treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy for psychological support.
The series also addresses the cultural silence around menopause, noting a burgeoning discourse in countries like the UK, the USA, and Australia. However, it cautions against media portrayals that focus excessively on the negative aspects of menopause, advocating instead for a balanced view that acknowledges the diversity of women’s experiences. Dr Lydia Brown from the University of Melbourne points out the absence of conclusive evidence linking menopause with deteriorated mental health, challenging prevalent misconceptions.
Healthcare professionals, researchers, and society at large are called upon to support women through menopause by providing validated information and discussing all available treatment options. That includes both MHT and non-hormonal therapies, with an emphasis on informed choice. The series critiques the commercial influence on menopause treatment information, advocating for accessible, evidence-based resources without commercial bias.
Moreover, the necessity of workplace support for menopausal women is highlighted, acknowledging the stress and challenges faced by women in the 45-54 age group. The series calls for research into women’s priorities concerning menopause and advocates for patient-focused agendas.
The Lancet series champions a paradigm shift in menopause management, advocating for a comprehensive, informed, and empathetic approach. It calls for societal, workplace, and healthcare sector reforms to support women in navigating menopause as a natural part of life. The series aims to empower women with knowledge, choice, and support throughout this transition.
More information: Martha Hickey et al, An empowerment model for managing menopause, The Lancet. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(23)02799-X
Journal information: The Lancet
