Coping with Menopausal Symptoms among Japanese Teachers : Associations with Symptom Severity and Knowledge

Menopausal symptoms can significantly affect the performance of working women. The association between knowledge of symptoms, educational level and better coping with the symptoms has been found. However, no study has been performed about coping with menopausal symptoms among school teachers who have higher educational background in Japan. This cross-sectional study explored coping strategies used by female teachers experiencing menopausal symptoms and the factors influencing their healthcare-seeking behaviors. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire between December 5, 2022 and February 28, 2023. Participants included 278 female teachers aged 45-60 years working in public elementary and junior high schools, of whom 156 (56.1%) reported menopausal symptoms. More than 80% of those with symptoms used at least one coping strategy : gathering information (68.6%), self-coping (60.9%), seeking advice (57.1%), and medical consultation (26.3%). Higher somatic menopausal symptom scores were associated with seeking medical consultation or advice. A significant correlation was observed between symptom severity and number of coping strategies used. Additionally, prior knowledge of menopause significantly increased the likelihood of information gathering and self-coping. Our findings underscore the need for support systems that help teachers cope with menopausal symptoms effectively, such as improving access to care and providing educational opportunities about menopause. J. Med. Invest. 72 : 85-92, February, 2025.