Menopause Management: What Young Indian Doctors Know and Do

Menopause is a big deal in India. With a large and aging female population, managing menopause is crucial. Young obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYNs) are on the front lines, but how much do they really know about it? A recent study dug into this question, focusing on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding menopause management. The study aimed to fill a gap in the data. It wanted to see how well young OBGYNs understand menopause and if their practices match current guidelines. The research used a nationwide survey on the CLIRNET platform, which is a digital tool for healthcare professionals to collaborate and share knowledge. The survey was open to all OBGYNs in India, but only 514 met the criteria for the study. Most of the doctors surveyed (92. 2%) knew that vasomotor symptoms are a big issue during menopause. This is a good sign, but there were some surprises. For instance, younger doctors (0-3 years of experience) were better at identifying the average age of menopause in India than those with 7-10 years of experience. This might seem odd, but it shows that experience doesn't always equal better knowledge. When it came to managing menopause, most young doctors recommended a combination of estrogen and progestogen for vasomotor symptoms. However, this recommendation was less common among doctors with 7-10 years of experience. Interestingly, younger doctors were less likely to support starting menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) early. This could be due to a lack of confidence or differing opinions on the best approach. The study found big differences in how well doctors understand and manage menopause. This isn't just about knowing facts; it's about applying that knowledge in a way that helps patients. The findings suggest that there's a need for better training and education. Doctors need to be on the same page when it comes to menopause care. So, what's the takeaway? Menopause management in India needs a boost. By understanding where young OBGYNs are succeeding and where they're struggling, we can create better training programs. This will help ensure that all women get the care they need during this significant life transition.