The menopause in Spain: results of the DAMES (Decisions At MEnopause) study

To assess the symptomatology of menopause and the use of hormone therapy among women in Spain.

A survey conducted on a representative sample of 300 women aged 45-55 in Madrid. The instrument included closed- and open-ended questions about demographic and socio-economic information, health and reproductive history, symptoms in past month, use of health services, life style, and therapeutic decisions.

Eighty-three percent of respondents report five or more symptoms. Joint pains, weight gain, mood changes and nervousness are the most frequently reported; just under half of respondents report hot flashes; 4/5 report emotional/mental symptoms. The frequencies of some symptoms vary with socio-economic status. Two-thirds of respondents have consulted physicians, and 10% are currently taking hormone therapy; the use of hormone therapy is lower among women from the lower strata. One-fifth of respondents use of nonconventional and alternative medications. Just under half of respondents find that menopause is difficult.

Symptom reporting is relatively high, but general symptoms are more frequent than "core" menopausal symptoms. The use of hormone therapy is relatively low, but the use of alternative medicines is relatively high.