Half of Irish women are worried that their long-term relationships are suffering due to the menopause, according to a new survey.
A survey has revealed that 68% of women feel they are not adequately prepared for the impact of menopause and perimenopause.
The online survey of 2,892 women aged between 35 and 64 was conducted by the Menopause Hub clinic last month.
Of the respondents, 94% said they did not believe the Irish Government was doing enough to help menopausal women remain at work when symptoms arise.
Meanwhile, 86% highlighted the need for access to specialist menopause consultations at work and 80% said employers needed to introduce a menopause-in-the-workplace policy.
72% said greater menopause awareness training for staff at their organisations was needed.
Of the supports made available, the three most popular supports identified by women were free health checks for over 40s, free hormone replacement therapy, and more menopause training for GPs.
The survey showed the devastating impact that the menopause can have on couples and relationships, according to Menopause Hub CEO Loretta Dignam. She said that relationships are under immense strain from the menopause.
Of those surveyed, 51% of women in long-term relationships acknowledged that those relationships were suffering.
Ms Dignam said the findings highlighted "the urgent need" for greater awareness around the 'change of life' and its impact on families and relationships.
