Knowledge, Awareness, Attitudes and Practices toward Perimenopausal Symptoms among Saudi Females

Abstract

Women’s knowledge about perimenopause plays a crucial role in shaping their perception of related illnesses, influencing coping strategies, treatment adherence, and the overall management of this life stage. This cross-sectional study assessed the awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding perimenopause among 409 Saudi women attending primary healthcare centers. Participants completed a structured questionnaire addressing demographic data, awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to perimenopause. While 75.3% of the participants were aware of perimenopause, only 17.4% could identify more than 10 out of 20 perimenopause symptoms. Commonly recognized symptoms included menstrual irregularity (67.7%), mood swings (66.0%), and mood fluctuations (50.4%). Only 23.0% had optimal knowledge about perimenopause complications. Additionally, 73.3% had not consulted a doctor for perimenopause-related issues. An analysis of the overall knowledge score showed a mean (SD) = 14.82 (5.64) out of 34. The level of knowledge was independently associated with a higher educational level, more frequent perimenopause symptoms, and regular doctor visits. This study reveals high awareness but insufficient knowledge among Saudi women regarding perimenopause symptoms and complications associated with higher perimenopause morbidity and a lack of engagement with healthcare professionals. It underscores the need for early and continued education on perimenopause, improved doctor–patient communication, and specific interventions to boost knowledge and attitudes toward perimenopause.