Menopause survey findings

Healthwatch Warwickshire heard feedback about care during the menopause from 22 people in the first half of 2023. Over two thirds described a lack of support or knowledge from a GP when seeking help with the menopause.

Healthwatch heard from people needing repeated appointments, or being mis-diagnosed, before being supported during the menopause. People shared the wider impact on their lives, as a lack of support led to poor mental health, thoughts of suicide, increased challenges of caring for others whilst struggling with their own symptoms, and concerns about job loss. 

Following the national research and local feedback, a survey was conducted to find out people’s current experience of menopause care in Warwickshire. Questions were developed with input from two local menopause support groups

The survey was shared widely online, via social media, and paper copies taken to our in-person engagement activities, between September and December 2023. Partner organisations were keen to share with their colleagues and clients, and to support individuals to fill in their responses as a way of opening-up conversations. 

Throughout our survey people told us about a lack of knowledge around the menopause, the treatment, care and support available. Key conclusions include:

• Individuals were unsure who to contact, what to ask for, and told us about their knowledge gaps and the need to educate and advocate for themselves.
• We heard from those who had visited their GP and were dissatisfied with their care, that this was frequently due to a lack of knowledge or support.
• We heard about repeated appointments, delays to diagnosis, treatment and onward referrals.
• Whilst there are some GP practices with a named member of staff to provide menopause care, this was not widely known about.

There are recommendations in this report.

• Use online training to increase knowledge, encourage conversation and raise awareness in your organisation.
• Signpost to support for individuals.
• Promote the role of a named member of staff in primary care for support throughout the menopause, to improve access and increase patient satisfaction with care.

There are follow up actions in this report. They focus on sharing the report widely and with health oversight boards/committees locally.