A new survey of 2,000 adults in relationships has revealed that nearly a quarter of men mistakenly believe the solution to menopausal hot flushes is as simple as “cracking open a window.” The research highlights how little men understand about their partners’ menopausal symptoms, with the subject often absent from conversations. In fact, one-third of respondents admitted they’ve never discussed it at all. This lack of dialogue may help explain why men’s knowledge on the topic remains so limited.

While some men suggested the quick fix of “opening a window,”  four in ten failed to identify hot flushes as a key menopausal symptom. Meanwhile, more than half were unfamiliar with the term “perimenopause.” However, this gap in understanding isn’t exclusive to men. The survey found that 36% of all adults feel unconfident about their knowledge of menopausal changes. Even 20% of women admitted they have only limited awareness of this transitional phase.

This lack of education can have real consequences. As many women experience menopausal symptoms without realising it and may miss out on the medical support available to them. For instance, as women navigate perimenopause, changes in vision are often overlooked.

The survey discovered that 44% of women didn’t recognise mood swings as a potential sign of menopause, while over half (57%) didn’t link weight gain to the condition. Even more concerning, 40% were unaware that anxiety could be a menopausal symptom, and a staggering 80% of adults were unaware that dry eyes are a common issue during menopause. 

In response to this knowledge gap, the optician Vision Express has taken action by incorporating menopause awareness training across its stores.

This new initiative aims to improve recognition of the link between menopause and ocular health among women. Dan McGhee from Vision Express emphasised the importance of such efforts, stating: “Too often, women are left to navigate these changes without the support or information they deserve and we hope to change that.”

Interestingly, only 11% of men reported feeling uncomfortable discussing menopause, yet meaningful conversations on the subject are limited. Just 23% of women and 20% of men have ever engaged in serious discussions about menopause, according to the survey.

While two-thirds of men admit they are less informed about menopause than they could be, an encouraging 89% agree that understanding this natural life stage is important for both men and women.

Dan McGhee from Vision Express, added: “With our research revealing that a significant number of men underestimate well-known symptoms, it’s clear that open communication and understanding are vital. Being aware of changes, including those affecting vision like dry eyes, allows for earlier support and proactive care.

“We are committed to bridging this knowledge gap, ensuring both individuals and their partners are better equipped to navigate this important life stage together.”