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Menopause- Keyword Analysis

Topics/keywords: ‘menopause’

Data types: posts, comments, likes, polls

Geographical segment: global physicians, physicians by region

Analyzed data points on G-Med: 3,715

Specialties: Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Medicine,   General Medicine

Countries analyzed: 56

Reach: 30,690

Introduction

This report presents an in-depth analysis of physician discussions on menopause based on posts and comments gathered from the G-Med platform. Using keyword-based content identification, sentiment assessment, and cross-country comparisons, the report highlights key clinical concerns, opinions, and approaches surrounding menopause diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. The findings reflect real-world physician perspectives across multiple specialties and regions.

Main Concerns of G-Med Physicians on the Topic of Menopause

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· Hormone Replacement Therapy Safety (16% of physician discussions)
Discussions of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) safety were prominent, with 52% within these discussions expressing positive sentiment around its benefits for symptom relief and quality of life, while 48% highlighted potential risks including cancer and cardiovascular complications.

· Cardiovascular Risks (15%)
Physicians expressed concerns about cardiovascular complications linked to menopause and hormone replacement therapy, with 38% highlighting protective aspects of therapy under certain factors, and 62% cautioning about potential increased risk.

· Mood and Cognition (15%)
Mental health challenges were frequently raised, with 38% emphasizing effective approaches to managing mood symptoms, and 62% voicing concern over persistent depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline during menopause.

· Vasomotor Symptoms (10%)
Physicians discussed hot flashes and night sweats, with 40% expressing confidence in therapies or interventions, and 60% noting frustration with incomplete symptom relief or patient dissatisfaction.

· Genitourinary Symptoms (7%)
Topics included vaginal dryness and dyspareunia, with 33% noting effective treatments and 67% highlighting challenges, under-detection or under-treatment of these symptoms.

· Bone Health and Osteoporosis (5%)
Though not a common topic of discussion, mentions of bone health conveyed concerns about untreated bone loss and fracture risks.

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Key Points on Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up

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Diagnosis (18% of physician discussions)

· Challenges in Symptom Attribution: Physicians noted that menopausal symptoms often overlap with mood disorders and other conditions, leading to diagnostic uncertainty. Among these discussions, sentiment was evenly split: 50% expressed optimism about improved awareness and diagnostic tools, while 50% emphasized ongoing difficulties distinguishing symptoms.

  • Screening Gaps: Some highlighted limited use of      hormonal or biomarker tests, expressing need for alternative diagnostic      pathways when the patient is unable to provide an adequate history.

  • Recognition of Early Menopause: Discussions noted      underdiagnosis of early-onset menopause, especially among younger women  with irregular cycles.

Treatment (25% of physician discussions)

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy Debate: 52% praised HRT for      effective symptom control, while 48% raised concerns about side effects      and long-term risks, leading to differing prescribing practices. Some      physicians raised questions about how long HRT should be continued, with      particular concern about increased cancer risk over time. While a portion  supported extended treatment for symptom relief, others emphasized a need  for regular reassessment and time-limited use.

  • Interest in Non-Hormonal Options: Physicians discussed SSRIs for mental health symptoms, particularly when HRT was      contraindicated. They also discussed diet and lifestyle modifications as      adjuncts or alternatives, as well as alternative medicine.

  • Adherence Challenges: Some noted patient reluctance or discontinuation due to side effects or fear of long-term complications.

Follow-Up (8% of physician discussions)

  • Monitoring Therapy Outcomes: Some physicians noted      that symptoms such as hot flashes and mood disturbances often return after  stopping HRT, underscoring the importance of gradual tapering and patient counseling during treatment discontinuation.

  • Limited Standardization: Discussions noted lack of consistent follow-up plans, with few posts explicitly addressing structured monitoring.

  • Integration of Mental Health Screening: A small subset highlighted importance of tracking mood and cognition alongside symptom      management.

  • Long-Term Bone Health Monitoring: Occasional mentions      emphasized assessing bone density as part of ongoing follow-up care.

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Geographical Analysis of Physician Discussions on Menopause

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Of the 56 countries analyzed, the following topics were discussed in prominent countries:

· United States: Physicians frequently discussed hormone replacement therapy safety, vasomotor symptoms, mood and cognition, and cardiovascular risks, reflecting an emphasis on balancing symptom relief with long-term safety.

· France: Topics centered on cardiovascular risks, mood and cognition, and cautious consideration of hormone replacement therapy benefits versus risks.

· Spain: Discussions emphasized symptom relief, hormone replacement therapy safety, and careful evaluation of treatment options.

· United Kingdom: Focused on hormone replacement therapy safety, mood and cognitive concerns, and nuanced debates about balancing immediate benefits with potential long-term complications.

· Germany: Physicians discussed bone health and osteoporosis prevention alongside cardiovascular risks and mood/cognitive changes.

Cross-Country Differences

Confidence vs. Concern in Hormone Replacement Therapy
This theme examines the spectrum of physician sentiment regarding HRT efficacy and safety.

  • Confidence in Hormone Replacement Therapy: Highest in the United  States and notable in Germany, where many physicians reported positive patient outcomes and symptom improvement.

  • Concern about Hormone Replacement Therapy: Stronger in Spain,      United Kingdom, France, and Mexico, where discussions      often focused on potential long-term risks and cautious use.

Symptom-Focused vs. Long-Term Risk-Focused Discussions
This theme contrasts physicians who prioritize immediate symptom management versus those emphasizing long-term health monitoring.

  • Symptom-Focused: Predominant in the United States and present in France, where managing hot flashes, night      sweats, and mood changes were top concerns.

  • Long-Term Risk-Focused: Smaller but visible in Spain and Mexico, with focus on cardiovascular health, bone density, and overall patient risk assessment.

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Engagement Recommendations:

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  • As can be seen from the report, there are some knowledge gaps on the topic of menopause, especially surrounding the benefits and risks of HRT and its optimal duration. An awareness campaign could be beneficial in this case.

  • G-Med's Awareness Package could be a good fit here.

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