Differences in coping with menopausal symptoms in nurses and general workers in Japan

•We compared coping with menopausal symptoms between nurses and general workers.•Approximately 50% of both nurses and general workers coped with symptoms.•Both workers with sufficient understanding of symptoms were likely to cope.•The proportions of women who used diversion were high in both workers.•Nurses with a sufficient understanding of menopausal symptoms had received HRT.

ObjectiveWe examined the differences in coping with menopausal symptoms between nurses and general workers, and we examined the association of the differences with understanding of menopausal symptoms in Japan.MethodsThree hundred and ninety-seven nurses and 217 general workers aged 45–60 years who had experienced menopausal symptoms completed a health questionnaire including questions on coping with menopausal symptoms and an understanding of causes and treatment of menopausal symptoms.ResultsApproximately 50% of both nurses and general workers had experience in coping with menopausal symptoms. Both nurses and general workers who had a sufficient understanding of menopausal symptoms were likely to cope with the symptoms and to visit hospitals. For coping strategies, the proportions of women who used diversion and dietary supplements were high in nurses and general workers, and the proportion of nurses who used diversion was significantly higher than that in general workers. Nurses with a sufficient understanding of menopausal symptoms had received hormone replacement therapy, and general workers with a sufficient understanding of menopausal symptoms had received herbal medicine.ConclusionThe proportions of nurses and general workers coping with menopausal symptoms were similar, although nurses had better knowledge regarding menopausal symptoms. More efforts to provide information and appropriate education regarding menopausal medicine and coping strategies may be required for both nurses and general workers.