A study published in BMC Women’s Health highlights the intersection of domestic abuse (DA) and perimenopause, revealing unique vulnerabilities for survivors. Fifteen DA survivors participated in focus groups to discuss their experiences with perimenopause. The analysis identified three key themes:
- Symptom Confusion: Participants had difficulty differentiating between trauma responses, hormonal changes, and existing health conditions.
- Weaponization and Empowerment: Abusers exploited perimenopausal symptoms for control, but some women found that these hormonal changes spurred their decisions to leave abusive relationships.
- Barriers and Facilitators: Survivors often turned to peer support networks for validation, as they faced inadequate responses from professional services.
The study found that anxiety, mood changes, and sleep disturbances were intensified by current or past abuse. It also revealed that perimenopause could be used as a tool for coercion but might also lead to empowerment. The researchers call for healthcare providers in the UK to receive training that addresses these overlapping issues, emphasizing the need for integrated, trauma-informed care to support women navigating these challenges.