Perimenopause
The Unknown Precursor to Menopause
So what is Perimenopause anyway?
What are the symptoms?
What is the current state?
Historically taboo to discuss women’s intimate bodily functions. Source
Late diagnosis increases risk of disease and cognitive decline. Source
Worsening anxiety and lack of quality sleep has a deleterious effect. Source
Exploratory User Stories
Over 30 User Stories were formulated, reflecting specific features and desired functionality of a digital solution
User stories were grouped into common themes or functions, establishing Epics. The top four were:
“Normalize Topic”
This Epic best addresses the How Might We Question
Establishing Epics
“Prepare”
“Educate”
Refining Chosen Epic
“Treat Symptoms”
“Educate”
“As of 2020, nearly half of women around the globe were unaware of perimenopause and were surprised when it started.” Lack of information and resources can lead to misdiagnosis, mistreatment and misunderstanding of anyone who is experiencing symptoms. source
It means "around menopause," or the time of life when the body is transitioning to menopause (defined as the end of reproductive years). Source
It occurs in females early as mid-30s or as late as mid-50s. Source
Lack of formal education and training. Source
Perimenopause results in more years without estrogen benefits. Source
No diagnostic test or imaging study to confirm perimenopause. Source
“How Might We” Question
How might we help educate people about perimenopause, so more understanding, research, and treatment options become available?
Interviews
Participant Criteria
People with female reproductive organs
Aged 35-45
Living in the United States
Part of a family and a social circle
Working or raising children full-time
Experiencing at least 1 perimenopausal symptom
Premature menopause can be a symptom of an autoimmune disease. Source
All of the participants met the participant criteria. Some knew more about Perimenopause than others, and all were open to talking more about it.
Through Affinity mapping of pain points, motivations and behaviors, the most common themes emerged:
The Problem: Half the world’s population (women and people assigned female at birth) experience perimenopause directly. But most people don’t even know what it is.
Education & Resources
35-55
No two women will have the same journey, making diagnosis difficult. Source
A gradual, natural decline in estrogen hormones produced by ovaries. Source
5-10
Persona
Interview Insights
Symptoms & Frustrations
Misinformation & Misunderstanding
Theme & Insight Statement
Stigmas and shame. Source
Education & Resources
Responsibilities
“Women have tried to self-educate about perimenopause and are open to treatments, but there is limited knowledge and resources available.”