One in four people going through menopause in Nottingham are turning to holistic therapies to manage their menopause symptoms, as new research reveals widespread dissatisfaction with current treatment options and a call for a more integrated approach to care.
A new Menopause Awareness Month survey conducted by Platinum Spas, hot tub and hydrotherapy specialists, found that the majority (62%) of women aged 45–55 who have experienced perimenopause or menopause describe their journey as negative or bad.
The study of 1,000 UK women aged 45-55 also revealed that 1 in 4 Nottingham women (24%), do not feel fully supported by their GP in their menopause journey.
Nearly a third of menopausal women in Nottingham (31%) believe that NHS treatment plans alone are insufficient. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains a vital lifeline for many, awareness of complementary approaches - including supplements, exercise, and acupuncture - is increasing, with women reporting improved knowledge of alternative therapies.
Interestingly, over half (59%) of survey respondents in the Nottingham believe that doctors should be able to prescribe holistic or social-based treatments alongside medication such as HRT.
Sarah Watkins, wellness expert at Platinum Spas said,
“These findings show just how important it is that we open up the conversation around menopause care. While medication like HRT is life-changing for many women and awareness and access is improving - lifestyle approaches such as Pilates, breathwork and hydrotherapy can also play a supportive role in improving wellbeing. Women deserve access to a more varied toolkit for managing symptoms, and GPs should feel empowered to recommend them.”
Sarah Gilbertson, Therapeutic Coach for Women in Midlife and Founder of FlourishWell Coaching adds,
“Women need a range of options, both medical and holistic, so they can decide what's right for them. It's about choice and flexibility, not a one-size-fits-all plan.
“The most helpful therapies are the ones women enjoy and feel they can sustain. Yoga, Pilates and breathwork support body and mind. Weight training builds strength and protects bone health. Journalling or mindfulness bring clarity. And hydrotherapy - from hot tubs to warm baths - can ease muscle tension and offer much-needed calm.”
Holistic menopause therapies are rising in popularity
Across the UK, one in 20 respondents listed holistic therapies as one of their top three sources of information for menopause health, and with a third of women already using holistic and alternative therapies to manage their symptoms. The latest research deep dives into the most common alternative treatments and how effective they really are.
10 most effective tried and tested alternative therapies
(Percentage who say it is effective for them in managing their perimenopause and menopause symptoms)
- Yoga or pilates (61%)
- Cold water therapy (61%)
- Breathwork (59%)
- Meditation or mindfulness (59%)
- Supplements (55%)
- Hydrotherapy (52%)
- Diet changes (52%)
- Aromatherapy (52%)
- Herbal remedies (52%)
- Menopause specific apps or online communities (50%)
Sarah Gilbertson, Therapeutic Coach for Women in Midlife and Founder of FlourishWell Coaching commented,
“More women are realising menopause isn't just something to medicate - it's a whole-body transition. I often hear women say they want to feel clear-headed, confident, and like themselves again. Holistic approaches like yoga, mindfulness, movement and hydrotherapy can offer practical ways to ease stress, improve sleep and restore a sense of balance day to day.”
For further information on Platinum Spas’ Menopause Awareness Month study, visit their online report: https://www.platinum-spas.com/latest-news/the-state-of-menopause-report/