In a significant cultural shift, more than half of young women now report being better informed about the menopause, thanks to the increased willingness of women to openly share their experiences. The research suggests that today’s younger generations are significantly more knowledgeable about menopause than previous generations were.
Recent studies suggest that this open dialogue has left many feeling well-equipped to tackle menopausal symptoms head-on. The study, which surveyed 2,000 women, found that 63% believe there is less stigma surrounding menopause now compared to a decade ago. Additionally, 17% reported that this increased sharing of information has boosted their confidence and reduced feelings of nervousness or embarrassment about undergoing menopause in the future.
A notable 41% believe that more workplace initiatives could further menopause awareness. Yet, only 23% have either participated in or are part of workplace conversations regarding menopause at their current jobs.
However the study shows that these ongoing discussions around menopause in a work environment have had a positive impact, with 82% feeling reassured about facing the future.
Cherry Healey commented on behalf of Replens, who initiated the study: “The menopause was something that was seen as unimportant until you were going through it. But this research shows it’s really important to start thinking about the menopause, in many cases here, long before it starts to affect you physically.”
She went on to say: “Forewarned is forearmed, and there are very few occasions in life when having knowledge about something wasn’t useful to have.”
The research found that 65% of Millennial women consider themselves very or somewhat knowledgeable about the menopause. Consequently, 40% of these women feel more comfortable discussing it with others, while 29% feel they have greater control over their overall health and wellbeing.
While 36% of Millennial women source most of their information from social media, a larger proportion (54%) rely on friends and family. Over half (53%) have had a conversation about ageing with someone older than themselves.
Interestingly, most believe that younger generations today are much or somewhat more informed about the menopause than previous generations.
Despite many still feeling that there isn’t currently enough public information available about the menopause, encouragingly, six in ten say they are now embracing ageing and everything that comes with it.
Cherry added: “Menopause is no longer something women should shy away from. “As awareness grows, we’re seeing women – especially millennials like myself – feel more empowered and better prepared to manage their symptoms.”
“This shift is crucial, as the older members of my generation are now reaching their menopausal years. However, when it comes to vaginal dryness, there’s still some hesitation to speak openly about it.
“We aim to break this taboo by offering both education and trusted products, helping women feel comfortable and supported during this natural life stage.”
