A survey and analysis on symptoms of menopausal women: 583 cases

Abstract

Objective To investigate the main symptoms and the health care consciousness of the menopausal women. Methods From Jul. 2013 to Oct. 2014, a one-on-one, face-to-face questionnaire was conducted in selected menopausal women in Gynecology Clinic of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. Results There were 583 valid questionnaires overall. 349 women had natural menopause, and the average age was (48.7±3.4) years. 66.72% women appeared menstrual disorders in premenopausal stage, presenting longer cycle and fewer menstrual quantity. 82.50% (481/583) women had menopausal symptoms, with hot flashes (57.46%, 335/583) as the most, followed by insomnia (50.60%, 295/583) . Kupperman score showed 7.03% (41/583) patients were the severe degree. Among the patients with menopausal symptoms, 234 cases went to menopause clinics on their own initiative and 36 cases visited other department first and then transferred to menopause clinics. Among patients with college or above degree, 51.27% (101/197) received menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) , significantly higher than those with poor educational background. Conclusion Vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes were still the main symptoms of menopausal syndrome. Although some menopausal patients had intentions to seek medical care by themselves, there sre still some patients lacking health care consciousness, which is more commonly seen in patients with lower level of education. Menopausal education promotion is needed. Key words: Menopause; Kupperman menopause index; Menopausal hormone therapy