Women and Parkinson's

Four in 10 people living with Parkinson's in the UK today are women. But their symptoms can look very different to men's, and it can be hard to tell whether symptoms are caused by Parkinson's, menopause, or something else

Parkinson’s causes motor symptoms, affecting movement and balance, as well as non-motor symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, constipation and pain. 

Four out of 10 (40%) of people living with Parkinson’s in the UK today are women. 

Parkinson’s affects women differently 

Genetics, hormones and other physical factors help explain this. We still need more research into women’s experiences of Parkinson’s.

Symptoms 

Women’s motor and non-motor symptoms may differ from men’s. Tell your specialist or nurse about all your symptoms, even if you are not sure whether they relate to Parkinson’s. 

Women may have more: 

  • bone problems like osteoporosis
  • earlier weight loss
  • problems with muscles around the bladder (pelvic floor muscles). 

Ask your specialist or nurse about referral to: 

  • a dietitian
  • a physiotherapist for help with pelvic floor problems
  • screening for bone problems. 

Medication 

Women taking levodopa for Parkinson’s are more likely to have movements that you can’t control (dyskinesia). Women are also more likely to experience “wearing off”, when Parkinson’s medication stops working as well. 

Ask your specialist or nurse about: 

  • possible medication adjustments
  • other treatment options, such as deep brain stimulation or infusion therapies.

Periods (menstruation) 

If you still have periods, symptoms could get worse or change during your menstrual cycle. And medication may seem less effective. 

Ask your specialist or nurse about: 

  • adjusting your Parkinson’s medication during your cycle
  • other ways to manage changes, including hormonal contraception.

Pregnancy 

Parkinson’s doesn’t seem to affect fertility and with the right support, pregnancy can be safe and manageable. If you are planning a pregnancy, or are currently pregnant, discuss this with your specialist or nurse. 

Perimenopause and menopause 

Parkinson’s symptoms sometimes get worse: 

  • around the time of menopause (when periods stop)
  • in perimenopause (the lead-up to menopause). 

Some women find it hard to tell if symptoms like tiredness and night sweats are due to menopause or Parkinson’s. 

Ask your specialist or nurse about: 

  • adjusting your medication
  • hormone replacement therapy (HRT)   
  • other ways to manage menopause.

Support is available 

Changes to your identity, relationships, and sex life can be tough to navigate. 

Prioritise yourself where possible: support is there if you need it. 

Ask your specialist or nurse about referral for: 

  • mental health support if you are feeling anxious or depressed

  • occupational therapy to help with managing daily activities.

     

There is no embarrassing question for a Parkinson’s nurse! Bring a list of questions - that might be about bladder problems, menstruation, or intercourse. 
Louise, specialist nurse

You’re not alone

We can help you feel more in control of life with Parkinson’s.  

Find out more about: 

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