World Menopause Day spotlighted chronic pain at midlife
The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is calling for greater awareness and research around menopause care this World Menopause Month.
That call followed World Menopause Day on 18 October, which put a spotlight on chronic pain at midlife. The theme was ‘Chronic Pain at Midlife’.
RACGP Specific Interests Menopause Health Subgroup Chair Dr Sharon Vasey said the theme highlighted an often-overlooked issue affecting women during and after menopause.
“Women should not have to accept chronic pain as an inevitable part of getting older or struggle to have their symptoms taken seriously,” Dr Vasey said.
According to the International Menopause Society (IMS), women are up to 70% more likely than men to experience chronic pain. IMS also says almost three in four women experience joint or muscle pain during perimenopause.
Linked to falling oestrogen, musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause refers to a group of changes. Those changes can include joint pain, stiffness and weaker muscles.
Dr Vasey said greater recognition was needed for the complex health changes that can occur during midlife, including a higher likelihood of chronic pain. She also said menopause has historically been overlooked, underfunded and under-researched, and called for sustained investment in research, education and evidence-based care.
RACGP women’s health spokesperson Associate Professor Magdalena Simonis said GPs are ideally placed to support women through menopause.
“Women deserve access to high-quality menopause care, no matter where they live,” Associate Professor Simonis said.
She said GPs build ongoing relationships with patients and understand their medical histories, which puts them in a strong position to support women through the menopause transition and help them make informed decisions. Simonis also said improving menopause education is vital so GPs can access the latest clinical guidance and training.
The College welcomes the Federal Government’s plans to develop Australia’s first national living clinical guideline for perimenopause and menopause. A 2024 Senate inquiry report identified significant gaps in medical education.
RACGP also continues to call for Medicare rebates that better support longer consultations. The College says female GPs are more likely to provide longer consultations and complex care involving women’s health.
Victoria MHT prescribing concerns
In Victoria, RACGP has raised concerns about the expansion of pharmacy-based prescribing for menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). The College says access to medication must not come at the expense of comprehensive, ongoing care.
“Menopause care is about much more than a prescription. Women need a GP who can assess their symptoms, review treatment and consider their broader health. A repeat prescription can be one part of care, but it cannot replace an ongoing relationship with a GP who understands their medical history,” Dr Vasey said.
Earlier this year, the Australian Journal of General Practice published its ‘Menopause 1’ and ‘Menopause 2’ issues to support GPs in delivering high-quality menopause care.
