The Multiple Sclerosis Australian Women’s Midlife Years (MS-AMY) Study

Our understanding of women’s health during midlife is limited. Socio-demographic shifts in Western societies, including delayed childbirth, increased use of IVF and more women working during the menopausal transition, may modify the impact of menopausal symptoms on women, their health and families. The presence of a chronic condition such as MS may add another layer of complexity. MS is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 years, meaning most women with MS will experience midlife menopausal transition after their diagnosis.

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), including hot flushes and sweats, are experienced by most women undergoing the menopausal transition. However, women with MS may perceive VMS as exacerbation of their pre-existing MS symptoms. A key challenge when evaluating the relationship between menopause and MS is the considerable overlap between menopausal symptoms and many of the “invisible symptoms” of MS including mood disorders, sleep disturbance, changes in bladder function and sexual dysfunction. This can make it difficult for women with MS and neurologists to establish whether new symptoms are related to menopause or MS. Addressing these invisible symptoms of MS is important as many impact the quality of life of women with MS.

Professor Susan Davis, Associate Professor Vilija Jokubaitis and their team, will conduct a nationwide survey of Australian women with MS aged 40–69. The study will explore the impact of common midlife circumstances and menopause on their quality of life, comparing their experiences to those of the general population as documented in the Australian Women’s Midlife Years (AMY) Study.