The connection between menopause and arthritis is not fully understood, but it is believed the decline in hormone levels can worsen arthritis symptoms.
More than 20 women met on the monthly Zoom Cafe last week to talk about menopause and arthritis.
Menopause with arthritis is tough. Fatigue, joint pain, trouble sleeping, feeling abandoned, irritability, and anxiety are common feelings.
The group learned that menopause and arthritis share symptoms like fatigue and joint pain. More than half of women feel joint pain or arthritis during menopause, and for 21%, it is significant.
Research suggests hormonal changes during menopause can worsen arthritis symptoms. While the connection is not fully understood, it is believed it is due to the decline in hormone levels.
Women shared how menopause has impacted their quality of life. “I didn’t know menopause might have been affecting my ongoing, undetermined joint pain until a younger sister told me.”
Studies show that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helps with menopause symptoms and arthritis. Some women felt much better after starting HRT. One said, “The effect was almost instant” after years of severe joint pain.
Concerns about HRT risks, like blood clots and breast cancer, were also discussed. These risks are small, and HRT might even help heart disease. One woman said she was not prescribed HRT for over a year because of the breast cancer link, but this has now changed.
Women were encouraged to talk to their doctors about HRT with arthritis medication. Access to treatment is not always easy. One woman said her doctor asked for research before considering HRT, while another had to be convinced by her doctor.
The group also talked about natural alternatives and warned against menopause products as they are marketed with little evidence. Cognitive behavioural therapy and hypnosis can help with hot flashes and night sweats.
 Lifestyle changes, like better nutrition and exercise, were recommended. One participant said, “Finding the right type of exercise and amount is hard.”
Other suggestions included reflexology, vitamin B12 supplements, and laughter yoga. One woman said finding the right mix of exercise, medicine, and lifestyle is highly individual.
The session showed the need for greater awareness and support for women facing menopause and arthritis. “Sharing experiences helps light the way for others.”
Arthritis NZ is developing resources to help women with menopause and arthritis.
Further reading on menopause: