The MenopauseGAP study by researchers at the University of Birmingham, University of Warwick and University of Oxford proposes a range of recommendations to ensure equitable access to menopause support and HRT.   

Dr Abi Eccles, University of Oxford, said: ‘Our study shows that while awareness of menopause has increased in recent years, access to care is not equitable. Having a system where it is assumed that women will advocate for access to treatment, means some do not access equitable care.'

The study found women with heightened responsibilities, including juggling careers and caregiving commitments, can suffer worse menopause symptoms and revealed concerns over the risks of taking HRT, particularly around cancer.

It also revealed dissatisfaction with treatment with many women having to advocate for HRT and some women offered antidepressants or other treatments instead of HRT.

Social background also acted as an obstacle to treatment with many Black and South Asian participants noting how conversations about menopause were rare or non-existent within their communities and highlighting the lack of relatable information and representation in healthcare materials, which led to disengagement or wariness.