Troubling new research of 2,000 adults in relationships has found a third of men have ‘little’ to ‘no’ understanding of their partner’s menopause symptoms
Almost a quarter of men believe menopausal hot flushes can be easily addressed by simply “cracking open a window,” according to a study of 2,000 adults in relationships. The research revealed that a third of men have little to no understanding of their partner’s menopause symptoms, with couples rarely discussing the topic and about a third admitted they’ve never had a conversation about it.
This lack of communication could explain the low awareness of menopause symptoms among men. Despite the suggestion of “opening a window,” the study found that four in ten men couldn’t identify “hot flushes” as a symptom of menopause, and over half were unfamiliar with the term “perimenopause.”
However, this knowledge gap isn’t limited to men. The study found that overall 36% of adults feel unconfident about understanding the changes associated with menopause. Even among women, one in five admitted to being unclear about this phase in their life.
Of the women surveyed, 44% confessed they didn’t recognise mood swings as a sign of menopause, while 57% didn’t associate weight gain as part of the changes and 40% were unaware anxiety could also be a symptom. Perhaps more surprisingly, 80% of all adults weren’t aware that dry eyes are a common menopausal symptom.
As a result of this lack of knowledge, many women, particularly younger women, might not know that what they are experiencing are menopausal symptoms.
In an effort to ensure these symptoms are spotted as early as possible, Vision Express has introduced menopause training across its high street branches, focusing on closing the gap in awareness regarding the effects of menopause on women’s eye health.
Dan McGhee, Vision Express’ clinical services director, shared: “Too often, women are left to navigate these changes without the support or information they deserve and we hope to change that.”
Despite only 11% of men feeling uncomfortable when the ‘menopause’ is mentioned, only 23% of women and 20% of men have had comprehensive chats about menopause, the research indicates. However, it’s heartening to see that 66% of men recognise they could be more informed, with 89% agreeing that it’s vital for all genders to be clued up on symptoms.
Dan McGhee commented further: “This highlights the important role partners play in recognising the early signs of perimenopause and supporting throughout.
“With our research revealing that a significant number of men underestimate well-known symptoms, it’s clear that open communication and understanding are vital.” He pointed out: “Being aware of changes, including those affecting vision like dry eyes, allows for earlier support and proactive care.
“We are committed to bridging this knowledge gap, ensuring both individuals and their partners are better equipped to navigate this important life stage together.”
