Knowledge of reproductive physiology and hormone therapy in 53- to 54-year-old Swedish women: a population-based study.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate knowledge of hormone therapy (HT), reproductive physiology, and menopause in a population of 53- to 54-year-old women. Further aims were to determine whether the knowledge differed between users and nonusers of HT and between groups with different levels of education.

DESIGN

In 2003, all 53- and 54-year-old women (N = 1,733) in Linköping, Sweden, were sent a questionnaire containing questions about reproductive physiology related to menopause and HT. Answers from 73% of the women were analyzed.

RESULTS

Swedish women had limited knowledge of HT, reproductive physiology, and menopause irrespective of HT use or educational level. Most of the women knew that hot flashes are common around menopause and decreasing estrogen production causes the menopause. They knew little about the effects of progestagens and the effects of HT on fertility. Women with low educational level were more likely to answer the questions by stating that they were unsure than did women with high educational level. Ever-users of HT knew more than never-users about risks and benefits of HT in relation to breast cancer and osteoporosis, and ever-users thought that the risks of thrombosis and myocardial infarction were lower than did never-users.

CONCLUSIONS

Women need improved knowledge of the risks and benefits of HT as well as education about the reproductive system around menopause. This would probably better support and empower women to manage an important period of their lives.