A survey of 1,000 females who have yet to experience perimenopause or menopause found that 65% don't feel ready for it. While hot flushes and night sweats are well-known symptoms of menopause, as many as 94% of those surveyed weren't aware that electric shock sensations could also be a sign.
Similarly, 94% didn't know that a burning mouth could be a symptom, and the same percentage were unaware of (93%) and body odour (86%). Other lesser-known effects include dental problems (89%), dry eyes (84%), dry mouth (84%) and heart palpitations (73%).
An additional 1,000 females who have experienced menopause or are currently going through it were also surveyed - with 52% admitting they didn't feel prepared for this stage of life.
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Perhaps this lack of preparation is evident - on average, they experienced menopause symptoms one year and one month before realising they were going through it. While 13% didn't realise for two years or more.
The research, commissioned by CanesMeno, makers of menopausal support products, found that 65% of those yet to experience menopause don't feel ready for it. While 21% have never considered perimenopause or menopause, 25% anticipate it will have a significant impact on their life.
Dr Anne Henderson, a consultant gynaecologist and menopause specialist, emphasised the unique nature of each woman's experience, stating: "The menopause is a highly individual experience, yet far too many women still enter this stage of life feeling unprepared and unsupported."
She highlighted the potential breadth of its impact: "From physical symptoms like hot flushes to emotional and cognitive changes, the impact can be wide-ranging."
Dr Henderson called for greater support: "It's vital that women have access to clear, credible and balanced information and feel empowered to not miss the signs and seek support should they need it."
She also pointed out the importance of changing the discussion around the condition: "Education, open dialogue that help women to make more informed decisions are key to changing the narrative around menopause."
Angela Cook, a 49 year old psychologist from Banbury, Oxfordshire, shared her own menopause ordeal, telling how she was struck with an unexpected symptom - gum ache. Cook recounted her previously pristine dental history: "I never had any tooth or gum problems before [the menopause] - dentists would tell me how healthy my teeth were."
The symptom turned out to be a nasty shock for her: "So this was a massive surprise." Angela detailed the distress the symptom caused her: "It left me in great pain and apprehensive about eating food that had to be chewed."
Surveys suggest a significant gap in knowledge exists surrounding the menopause - a whopping 52% of the research participants believed there was an urgent need to better inform women about what awaits them during this biological transition. Just shy of half the respondents echoed the sentiment, feeling that the broader public needs further education on the subject.
A good number of women wish hindsight could teach them earlier in life; 35% regretted not learning about the menopause at educational institutions. Despite being a natural stage in life, 21% of those surveyed view the menopause as shrouded in taboo.
Up to 75% of menopausal women shy away from discussing their symptoms, a surprising survey reveals. It emerged the most common signs include hot flushes (63%) and night sweats (52%).
Research conducted by OnePoll.com also shows that 46% are reluctant to discuss menopause with pharmacists, with 30% feeling too embarrassed and 26% doubting their expertise. In contrast, 38% prefer to consult their GP.
Daria Costantini, brand lead for CanesMeno, which has launched a training programme for Boots pharmacists and a digital service, comments: "These findings highlight the clear need for better education, and accessible support during this life stage.
"Whether tracking signs or seeking expert guidance, we want to give women the tools to take control of their individual menopause journey with confidence."
TOP 20 LEAST KNOWN MENOPAUSE SIGNS:
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