Menopause Management Knowledge in Postgraduate Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of and nature of training for menopause management in postgraduate residents.

Participants and methods: A cross-sectional, anonymous survey was e-mailed to trainees at all postgraduate levels in family medicine, internal medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology at US residency programs between January 11, and July 4, 2017. The survey was adapted from an existing instrument and included questions regarding knowledge of hormone therapy (HT) and other menopause management strategies, availability and type of training in menopause medicine, and demographic information.

Results: Of the 703 surveys sent, a total of 183 residents representing 20 US residency programs responded (26.0% response rate). Most trainees were between 26 and 30 years of age (133 of 172 [77.3%]), female (114 of 173 [65.9%]), and believed it was important or very important to be trained to manage menopause (165 of 176 [93.8%]). Although most respondents answered some of the menopause competency questions correctly, important gaps were identified. Of 183 participants, 63 (34.4%) indicated they would not offer HT to a symptomatic, newly menopausal woman without contraindications, and only 71 (38.7%) indicated they would prescribe HT until the natural age of menopause to a prematurely menopausal woman. Of 177 respondents, 36 (20.3%) reported not receiving any menopause lectures during residency, and only 12 of 177 (6.8%) reported feeling adequately prepared to manage women experiencing menopause.

Conclusion: Family medicine, internal medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology residency trainees recognize the importance of training in menopause management, but important knowledge gaps exist. Investing in the education of future clinicians to provide evidence-based, comprehensive menopause management for the growing population of midlife women is a priority.