WOMEN experiencing menopause need support to encourage them to attend routine smear appointments, experts have said.

Research has revealed women going through, or who have recently experienced, menopause are less likely to turn up for cervical screening.

The reasons for this non-attendance vary from a misguided notion that the examinations are no longer necessary post-menopause to a common concern it will be more painful due to changes inside the vagina.

It comes as a new study by the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) determined the sporting world had a bigger role to play in supporting menopausal women staying active.

Moving Through Menopause, commissioned by SAMH and produced by The University of Edinburgh, shines new light on the links between our physical and mental health and wellbeing, and how menopausal symptoms impact women during this time.

The research found menopause was a barrier to being active, with 57% of women who participated reporting a decrease in activity levels, and that it negatively impacted women’s mental well-being while 94% of women reported a change in mood, such as low mood, anxiety, mood swings or low self-esteem.

Women who met the physical activity guidelines set out by UK Chief Medical Officers had greater mental well-being than those who did not.

Jo Anderson, director of influence and change at SAMH, said: “The recommendations set out in this report can make a real and positive difference to women’s lives, empowering them to become or stay active, while at the same time supporting their mental health and wellbeing.

“The need for change is clear and SAMH stands ready to play our part. This research is a solid foundation from which to expand our work relating to menopause, and support women to be healthy and well in this critical life stage.”

Charities Menopause Support and Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust have said its vital women find the right level of support to ensure they are able to carry out smear tests.

As part of our Don’t Fear the Smear campaign, the Glasgow Times has called on women to attend their cervical screening appointments in a bid to increase uptake across the city.

For those concerned about the effect menopause symptoms, such as vaginal dryness or soreness, lichens sclerosis, vaginal tightness, and vulval or vaginal pain, could have during a smear test there is support available.

In many cases, GPs are able to prescribe local oestrogen weeks ahead of the appointment to help with discomfort, while speculums are also available in different sizes and lubricant can be offered as an additional measure.

Minister for public health and women’s health, Jenni Minto said: “I'm very pleased to see this new research from SAMH and the University of Edinburgh, highlighting the positive impact of physical activity on both physical and mental well-being as women experience menopause.

“The themes that have emerged from this research align with the aims of the Women's Health Plan in which menopause is a top priority. Our plan sets out actions to raise awareness around women’s health, improve access to health care for women across their lives, and improve health outcomes for women and girls.”

Support Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and help make cervical cancer a thing of the past. If you have questions or need to talk, call their Helpline for information or support: 0808 802 8000