Elizabeth Gandee, APRN-CNP, highlights gaps in women's menopause knowledge

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Elizabeth Gandee, APRN-CNP, nurse practitioner in women's health at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, discussed findings from a nationwide survey on women’s perceptions of perimenopause and menopause.

The survey, which included 1,068 women aged 18 to 60 across the United States, focused on understanding women's awareness and attitudes toward the perimenopausal transition and associated health practices. Several key insights emerged, pointing to significant gaps in knowledge and misconceptions surrounding this life stage.

One major finding was that 61% of respondents believed they would experience menopause between the ages of 41 and 50 years. While this aligns somewhat with the average US menopause age of 50 to 52 yeears, it highlights a lack of awareness that perimenopausal changes can begin even earlier, sometimes in the late 30s. Gandee emphasized the importance of recognizing early symptoms and understanding the wide range of onset timelines.

Another notable discovery was that only 52% of women believed diet and exercise could effectively alleviate menopause symptoms. However, lifestyle changes—such as regular physical activity, strength training, calcium and vitamin D intake, and a balanced diet—are known to significantly support health during this transition. Gandee stressed the need for better education around these interventions, particularly their role in preventing bone loss and managing symptoms.

Additionally, the survey revealed that only 25% of participants considered hormone therapy to be a safe and effective treatment option. This low percentage contradicts established medical evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of hormone therapy for most women. Gandee pointed out that this finding underscores the urgent need for clinicians to educate patients about available treatment options that can improve their quality of life.

The survey also found that while many women recognized menopause could impact sleep and intimacy, fewer understood its potential effects on job performance. Gandee advocated for broader awareness and use of resources, such as The Menopause Society’s Making Menopause Work, to help women navigate these challenges both personally and professionally.

In conclusion, Gandee called on health care providers to take a proactive approach by initiating conversations early, even in brief appointments, and offering reliable resources. By equipping women with knowledge and support, they can face perimenopause with confidence and a better quality of life.

Disclosures: No relevant disclosures.

Reference

Survey: Women’s perceptions of perimenopause. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. April 8, 2025. Accessed May 1, 2025. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1079334.