Objectives: To assess the frequency of menopausal symptoms and patterns of recourse to medical care in Rabat, Morocco.
Methods: Face to face interviews with a representative sample of 300 women aged 45-55 years; information was collected on socio-demographic variables, reproductive history, use of health care, symptom checklist, and medical management of menopause.
Results: The most frequent complaints are fatigue and hot flashes, each reported by 61% of women, headaches (57%), joint pain (54%), anxiety (44%) and irritability (42%). Hot flashes, but not cardiovascular symptoms, are statistically associated with menopausal status. Only 5% of women in the sample take hormones, and 4% calcium; 13% continue to take contraceptives. The frequency of some symptoms and the use of health care for menopause are influenced by socio-economic factors.
Conclusions: Reports of hot flashes and joint pains are relatively high, but the frequency of use of medical services for menopause is low.