Work

A survey to understand the experience, perceptions, and stigma around menopause among African American women

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objective This survey (September–October 2022) sought deeper understanding of menopause experiences, perceptions, and unmet needs among African American women. Methods Participants were perimenopausal or had transitioned through menopause, resided in the United States, assigned female at birth, aged 40–69 years, African American, and reported menopause symptoms in the past 30 days. Results The survey was completed by 334 African American women (mean age 55 years). Common symptoms were night sweats (94%, n = 314), hot flashes (93%, n = 310), and vaginal dryness (87%, n = 291). Most reported symptoms lasting ≥9 years (81%, n = 270) and occurring daily (69%, n = 230). Participants believed African American women experience more frequent hot flashes over more years compared with other racial/ethnic groups. Participants believed society discriminates against menopause (82%, n = 274); 87% ( n = 290) did not feel supported, with 85% ( n = 285) seeking more healthcare provider support and 89% ( n = 296) reporting prayer helped cope with symptoms. Solutions to reduce discrimination included seeing everyday women share experiences (87%, n = 263) and educating younger women (77%, n = 233) and men (76%, n = 231). Conclusions African American women experience bothersome menopause symptoms and societal stigma. Education and greater access to trusted, female, African American healthcare providers may improve health status and help overcome health disparities in menopause.

Source: Preventive Medicine Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2025.103341

Authors: Meaghan Krohe, Pamela D. Price, Danielle Simeone, Liv Gagne, Deanna D. King, Pernessa C. Seele

Institutions: Astellas Pharma (United States), Balm In Gilead

Language: English

Topic: Menopause: Health Impacts and Treatments

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,610