A rapid review of menopausal education programmes

Abstract

Introduction

Menopause is a significant life event that can impact a woman's quality of life and mental health due to hormonal changes. Menopause education programmes play a crucial role in increasing awareness and knowledge about menopause in women. This rapid review aimed to identify the structure and components of menopause education programmes and summarise the evidence of their effectiveness in improving menopausal knowledge, symptoms, and quality of life.

Methods

The Cochrane rapid review methodology was employed, involving systematic searches in four databases. The eligibility criteria included primary research on menopause education programmes for adults, and studies reporting menopause-related outcomes.

Results

A total of 39 studies were included in the review, with most (n = 26/39, 66.7%) published in the last decade. The majority of interventions were delivered in group settings, providing advantages such as a supportive environment and shared experiences among participants. The most frequently covered topics included signs and symptoms of menopause, treatment/management, and lifestyle factors. The review identified evidence of effectiveness in supporting menopause education programmes for improving women's knowledge, symptoms, and quality of life. However, inconsistent reporting of intervention components hindered replication and implementation.

Conclusion

The review suggests the need for comprehensive reporting of interventions, and inclusion of premenopausal women, and recommends that future menopause education interventions are inclusive for all ages and abilities. Overall, studies included in this review support the use of menopause education programmes for improving women's understanding and management of menopause.