Abstract
INTRODUCTION: There is limited education provided to women about perimenopause and menopause, consequently many women have little knowledge and/or do not receive appropriate care in this critical life phase. The aim of this study was to explore Australian women's knowledge of perimenopause and menopause. METHODS: This concurrent mixed methods study using an online survey and qualitative interviews explored Australian women's knowledge and experiences of perimenopause and menopause. RESULTS: Four hundred eleven women completed the quantitative online survey with 25 participating in the semi-structured interviews. Data specific to women's knowledge of perimenopause and menopause were analyzed with qualitative data presented. DISCUSSION: Most participants in this study had some knowledge of perimenopause and menopause; however, expectations differed greatly from the reality they experienced. Findings highlighted that websites could be beneficial and discussions between women provided emotional and psychological support. There was no meaningful difference in knowledge scores due to education level.