Exploring Knowledge and Perceptions of Menopause Among Peri-Menopausal Women in Greece: Insights into the Role of Mobile Applications in Menopausal Management

TL;DR

Greek peri-menopausal women lack knowledge about menopause and face stigma, but show interest in mobile apps to manage symptoms and gain support.

Contribution

The study identifies cultural and informational gaps in menopause understanding and proposes a culturally tailored mobile app as a solution.

Findings

Greek women experience menopause symptoms like hot flushes and mood changes but lack awareness about their causes.

Menopause is considered a taboo topic, with reluctance to discuss it even with doctors.

Participants expressed interest in a Greek-language mobile app offering nutritional and psychological support.

Abstract

Menopause marks a natural phase in a woman's life and affects a significant portion of Greek women aged 40-69 and beyond. With increasing digitization, mobile health apps are transforming healthcare delivery, offering accessible and cost-effective support. This study explored the experiences of Greek peri-menopausal and menopausal women through focus groups, aiming to inform the development of a culturally appropriate mobile application. Participants, recruited via snowball sampling, completed questionnaires and engaged in online discussions moderated by researchers. Transcripts were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic framework. Key findings revealed widespread gaps in menopause knowledge, especially regarding its stages and symptoms. Women reported experiencing hot flushes, weight gain, mood disturbances, and vaginal dryness, often uncertain if symptoms were menopause-related. Menopausal hormone therapy was met with reluctance and misconceptions. Menopause was often perceived as a “taboo” subject, rarely discussed even with doctors, and likened to puberty in terms of emotional and social impact. Women reported workplace challenges, including stress, burnout, and ageism. While none had used menopause-specific apps, many were familiar with health-related apps and expressed interest in a menopause app offering nutritional, psychological, and lifestyle guidance. Most preferred Greek-language content, and views were mixed on whether the app should be free. Overall, the study underscores the need for educational, supportive, and culturally sensitive digital tools. A mobile app could bridge information gaps and offer a private, empowering space for Greek women navigating menopause.