Menopause in women of non-White ethnicity
Although the symptoms and long-term effects of menopause are all caused by falling oestrogen levels, research shows that women of different ethnic or racial backgrounds may experience menopause very differently.
Women of African or Caribbean origin have been found to experience hot flushes and sweats for longer and more severely than women of other ethnic backgrounds, and Chinese and Japanese women may experience more low libido and sexual pain than other women.
The age of onset of menopause also differs between different groups, with women from India and other parts of the Sub-continent having a lower average age of menopause than other groups (46 years compared to 51 in Caucasian women).
In addition, there are significant differences in the way that women view menopause based on their cultural background, socioeconomic status, educational level and the attitudes of people in the communities in which they live. These differences in experiences and perceptions of menopause can have a huge impact on women’s ability to seek help.
It’s therefore important to understand these differences to ensure that we provide culturally appropriate care that ensures a good quality of life for midlife women of all ethnicities and races. The British Menopause Society has just published a really helpful article on Menopause in Ethnic Minority women.
To find out more about the menopause, please see our other Educational Resources
Why New Woman Health?
At NewWoman Health we have a commitment to educating, advising, treating, and supporting women approaching, during, and following menopause. Our wide range of medical and lifestyle interventions helps women to manage or minimise their menopause symptoms and improve their quality (and potential longevity) of life in an aspirational and uplifting way.
If you’re concerned about your menopause transition and/ or other menopause-related problems, including treatment options, we can support you with our personalised medical consultations with menopause specialists. Take the next step in ensuring your long-term health and quality of life by booking a consultation with us today.
