The view of women aged 45–65 and their partners on aspects of the climacteric phase of life

Abstract Objective: to make an inventory of the opinions and attitudes of the Dutch female population (aged 45–65) and their partners on the climacteric period. Design: Data were collected as part of a weekly computer assisted questionnaire filled in by a representative panel composed of 234 women aged 45–65 and their partners. Setting: A random sample of the population of The Netherlands. Results: 12% of the women were current users of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), 21% had been hysterectomized, 32% were smokers. Although the prevalence of climacteric symptoms was as expected, only 1 out of 3 peri- and post-menopausal women were really troubled by the symptoms and had consulted a physician. The attitude towards HRT was neutral. Most women preferred a natural approach as a solution to the problems. Information on the climacteric was mostly obtained via the media, but in general the self-assessed level of knowledge was regarded by the panel as very low, even in current HRT users. Women on HRT were more positive toward treatment, and less confident about the spontaneous disappearance of the problems. Nearly all women, including current HRT users, regarded the absence of menstruation as a relief. Partners of climacteric women had the same opinion as their wives on all items. Conclusion: There is a lack of information on the climacteric and on the use of HRT. The Dutch female population tends to a natural approach of the climacteric without medication, but the general attitude can be regarded as neutral.