An epidemiological study on knowledge, attitude and practice of married women about menopause and hormone replacement therapy

Background: Women all over the world now have to spend almost 1/3rd of their lives in menopausal years. Therefore, menopause now is a concerning matter to maintain and improve women’s health. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. This study was conducted to determine knowledge, attitude and practice toward menopause HRT among women. Objective of the study was to determine the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice related to menopause and HRT among women.Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in May 2020 to July 2020 in a rural area of Ernakulam district of Kerala, India. 150 women were interviewed using a predesigned, pretested questionnaire.Results: In the present study, 42.6% of menopausal women had knowledge of menopausal symptoms. 31.3%, 38% and 26% knew that menopause increases risk of cardiovascular, osteoporosis and breast cancer respectively. 16.6% think menopausal women should consult a physician, only 42% of menopausal women are aware of HRT. 60.6% think menopausal symptoms affect quality of life. 50.6% think that menopause means end of sexual life. 42.6% think that absence of menstruation is a relief. 48.6% think physical changes of menopause are inevitable, hence acceptable. 35.3% had consulted a physician at the onset of menopause. 80% preferred natural approaches when compared to HRT. 76% and 86% think that HRT has many complications and side effects hence should be avoided respectively.Conclusions: The study concluded that the knowledge and attitude of the participants towards menopause and HRT was poor in the study population.