The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is calling for greater awareness and research around menopause care this World Menopause Month, following World Menopause Day's (18 October) spotlight on chronic pain at midlife.
RACGP Specific Interests Menopause Health Subgroup Chair Dr Sharon Vasey said the theme 'Chronic Pain at Midlife' highlighted an often-overlooked issue affecting women during and after menopause.
"Women should not have to accept chronic pain as an inevitable part of getting older or struggle to have their symptoms taken seriously," she said.
"We need greater recognition of the complex health changes that can occur during midlife, one of which is an increased likelihood of chronic pain."
According to the International Menopause Society (IMS), women are up to 70% more likely than men to experience chronic pain, while almost three in four women experience joint or muscle pain during perimenopause. Linked to falling estrogen, musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause refers to a group of changes which can include joint pain, stiffness and weaker muscles.
"Like so many areas of women's health, menopause has historically been overlooked, underfunded and under-researched," Dr Vasey said.
"We've made progress in raising awareness, but we need sustained investment in research, education and evidence-based care so women can get the support they need."
RACGP women's health spokesperson Associate Professor Magdalena Simonis said GPs are ideally placed to support women through menopause.
"Women deserve access to high-quality menopause care, no matter where they live," she said.
"GPs build ongoing relationships with their patients and understand their medical histories, putting them in a unique position to support women through the menopause transition and make informed decisions about their health.
"With this being said, improving menopause education is vital. GPs need access to the latest clinical guidance and training to ensure women can have informed conversations about their symptoms and treatment options."
The College welcomes the Federal Government's plans to develop Australia's first national living clinical guideline for perimenopause and menopause, following a
