The menopause

Menopause is experienced by approximately half the population and represents an opportunity for psychologists to examine the psychological and social factors that influence perceptions of bodily changes. There is considerable cultural variation in the experience of menopause - what role do attitudes, cognitions, behaviours, lifestyle and socio-economic factors play in this? In particular, what are the psychological factors affecting women's perceptions of hot flushes and night sweats? And might a new cognitive behavioural intervention benefit the 15-20 per cent of women who have problematic menopausal symptoms?