A new survey from Novo Nordisk has highlighted the confusion that continues to exist about menopause symptoms.

For instance, vaginal atrophy, a common symptom, can have a significant effect on quality of life, particularly in relation to painful sex. However, only 48 per cent of UK women are aware that vaginal dryness is actually a symptom of menopause and even fewer are clear on how it should be treated.

Some 15 per cent of those surveyed (sample size 2,000) believe that cellulite is a symptom of menopause , 12 per cent think that diarrhoea is a sign and 11 per cent even associate it with bad breath.

Just 37 per cent of women who experience menopause symptoms reported receiving support from their partners and only 10 per cent feel they had the backing of their workplace.

The findings show the “pressing need” for improved menopause education and better symptom management, says the company – something that was also called for in the 2022 Women’s Health Strategy.