Nearly one-third of Hong Kong working women cannot identify when menopause begins: Survey

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Menopause remains widely misunderstood despite its significant implications for wellbeing, workplace performance, and talent retention.

While awareness of women's health issues is generally high in Hong Kong, significant misconceptions about menopause continue to leave many women unprepared for its long-term health implications, according to new findings from AXA Hong Kong Female Health Survey 2026.

The study, which targeted working women in Hong Kong aged 30 to 54, found that nearly one-third (31%) of respondents were unable to correctly identify the typical onset of perimenopause, which usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 49.

More than a quarter (27%) believed menopausal symptoms only emerge after menstruation has stopped, while 19% viewed menopause as a concern only after the age of 50 or once periods cease entirely.

According to the survey, these misconceptions may prevent women from making full use of the critical “10-year window” before menopause to take preventive measures and better manage their long-term health.

While a majority (97%) of respondents recognised that bone loss accelerates after the age of 40 and understood that lifestyle factors and chronic stress may contribute to earlier menopause, only 53% said they were familiar with the long-term health risks associated with menopause.

Emotional and mental health concerns (60%), osteoporosis (58%), and metabolic syndrome (43%) were the most widely recognised risks. Awareness of other conditions, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, and high cholesterol, was considerably lower.

Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits and Wellness Officer, AXA Hong Kong and Macau, noted that menopause often begins during women's prime working years and insufficient awareness can affect both long-term health outcomes and workforce participation.

Menopause affects work, but few seek professional help

The survey also highlighted the prevalence of menopause-related symptoms affect working women.

More than one-third (37%) of respondents said they were currently experiencing, or had previously experienced, perimenopausal symptoms.

Among those affected, the most common symptoms were:

• mood swings, fatigue, or anxiety (65%)
• irregular menstruation (39%)
• insomnia (39%)
• hot flashes and night sweats (33%)

Despite these impacts, most women rely on informal sources of support. Around 68% turn to social media, online resources, or advice from friends and family, while only 41% have sought professional medical advice or treatment.

Employees expect employers to play a bigger role

The findings also indicated growing expectations for workplace support.

An overwhelming 91% of respondents believed employers can help women better manage menopause, while 96% said workplace support would benefit both employers and employees.

When asked what workplace initiatives they would most like to see, respondents identified:

• psychological and emotional support services (39%)
• menopause-related health check-ups (37%)

Respondents also believed that menopause-related support can help maintain work performance, reduce workplace stress, enhance employee wellbeing, and improve the retention of female talent.