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  • Why menopause is often misdiagnosed

    AIA Vitality NZ - 3 min read

    27 October 2022

    Better Lives with AIA VitalityBetter Lives with AIA Vitality
    • Health
    • Medical

    While people are starting to talk more about menopause, there is still a significant lack of education about its symptoms, progression, and most importantly, its diagnosis.

    AIA Vitality | Plan Well | Why menopause is often misdiagnosed

    The incorrect diagnosis of menopause is an unfortunately common occurrence. According to a survey by Newson Health Research and Education1, a third of respondents waited at least three years for their menopausal symptoms to be correctly diagnosed, and a further 18 per cent visited their doctor six times before they received the help they needed.

    But for something so common, why are misdiagnoses so prevalent?

    The symptoms of menopause often overlap with other conditions

    Perhaps the biggest reason behind the misdiagnosis of menopause is its symptoms, and how it can misrepresent itself as other conditions like depression and chronic fatigue syndrome2.

    During perimenopause – the transitionary stage leading up to menopause – your body experiences fluctuating hormone levels, which can cause a range of symptoms that overlap with a range of other conditions.

    These symptoms include:

    • Mood swings
    • Depression
    • Anxiety
    • Fatigue
    • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
    • Chronic fatigue
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Memory problems
    • Joint pains and more3


    A misdiagnosis of menopause can lead to these symptoms being improperly treated, and in some cases, extend their duration or severity4. It’s important to check in with your treating doctor, General Practitioner or specialist if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, even if you don’t think you’re in the right age bracket.

    Menopause can happen earlier than expected

    In New Zealand, the average age of women who begin menopause is 525. However, this transitionary period can happen earlier for some – women who commence perimenopause before the age of 40 experience early or premature menopause.

    This can be due to a range of factors, including:

    • Genetics
    • Women who previously underwent surgery or drug treatments that affect their fertility (e.g. breast cancer and chemotherapy6)
    • Women who smoke7  


    Apart from these factors, early menopause can happen to anyone for no definite reason.

    Managing menopause symptoms

    One of the most common menopause symptoms is hot flashes and/or night sweats, which up to 80 per cent of women experience during menopause. While these symptoms tend to dissipate within one to two years, making dietary changes can help reduce their occurrence.

    Common triggers include caffeine, alcohol and spicy food, while legumes, grains, sage tea, black cohosh and nuts are natural remedies that may help reduce the onset or severity of symptoms. A balanced diet and regular exercise can also help relieve menopausal symptoms8. 

    Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can sometimes be prescribed for women experiencing severe symptoms during perimenopause. It involves an artificial boost of hormone levels – usually a combination of progesterone and oestrogen – to reduce or eliminate menopause symptoms entirely. However, the therapy also brings considerable risks; studies suggest that even short-term use of HRT can increase the risk of acquiring breast cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer and more9.

    When to see a doctor or specialist

    Menopausal symptoms can often impact your quality of life, and if you’re struggling then it’s time to speak to your doctor. Record your symptoms in as much detail as possible – it’s a good idea to keep a journal to record frequency, time and severity of your symptoms.

    It’s also a good idea to visit your doctor, treating specialist or gynaecologist when there’s a change in your bleeding patterns (e.g. heavier or an absence of periods)10. 

    Menopausal symptoms vary from woman to woman, and if you’re at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis or heart disease, your doctor might recommend medical treatment11.

    Menopause (and perimenopause) is a natural part of every woman’s life cycle, so it’s important to recognise its symptoms and when to see a doctor. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion and get your other preventative health checks in order.

     

    Footnotes:

    1. https://www.themenopausecharity.org/2021/10/21/common-misdiagnoses/
    2. https://www.themenopausecharity.org/2021/10/21/common-misdiagnoses/#:~:text=Although%20depression%20can%20%E2%80%93%20and%20does,re%20feeling%20flat%20and%20tearful.
    3. https://www.themenopausecharity.org/2021/10/21/common-misdiagnoses/
    4. https://www.insider.com/menopause-misdiagnosis-took-years-nurse-find-what-was-wrong-2021-10
    5. https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/healthy-living/m/menopause/
    6. https://www.breastcancerfoundation.org.nz/breast-cancer/types-of-breast-cancer/breast-cancer-in-young-women/early-menopause-and-bone-health
    7. https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/healthy-living/m/menopause/
    8. https://www.womens-health.org.nz/health-topics/menopause/
    9. https://www.womens-health.org.nz/health-topics/menopause/
    10. https://www.southerncross.co.nz/medical-library/womens-health/menopause-symptoms-causes-and-treatment
    11. https://www.southerncross.co.nz/medical-library/womens-health/menopause-symptoms-causes-and-treatment
    • Explore Content Hub
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    Article by: AIA Vitality Staff Writer

    Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday New Zealanders live healthier, longer, better lives. 

     

    Disclaimer: The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.


    This content is brought to you by AIA Vitality

    AIA Vitality is a science-backed health and wellbeing programme that provides the guidance, tools, and rewards to get more out of life so you can start thriving.

    Find out more on AIA Vitality.

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