EXPLORING MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS AND PERCEPTIONS AMONG WOMEN: A CONCEPTUAL STUDY

Author Name: 1. Dr. Prof Leena Verma, 2. Prof K. Visithra, 3. B Y Tippesh, 4. Sonam Maclay, 5. Prof. Jayashree Ajith, 6. Thamizhselvi. I, 7. Dr. Priya Sharma, 8. Sumathy .K, 9.Dr. V. Revathy

Volume/Issue: 05/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/07.2024-63149546/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Principal, MGM college of Nursing, Katni, India. leena@yahoo.com
2. Vice Principal, Sri Lakshmi Narayana College of Nursing, Puducherry, India. visithrak@gmail.com
3. Senior Nursing Officer, ESIC Medical College, PGIMSR And Model Hospital, Rajajinagar, Bangalore, Karnataka. tippu1983@gmail.com
4. Assistant Professor, Banasthali Vidyapith University, Newai, Tonk District, Rajasthan, India. sonammaclay77@gamil.com
5. Principal, Naraina Nursing College Kanpur, India. achchuajith@gmail.com
6. Nursing Officer, Indira Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Pondicherry, India. thamizhselvi87@gmail.com
7. Professor, Army College of Nursing, Jalandhar Cantt, India. Priya00975@gmail.com
8. D. Research Scholar, Avinashilingam Institute of Home science& Higher Education for women. Coimbatore ,Tamilnadu, India. sumathyraja2010@gmail.com
9. Associate Professor, College of Nursing, Mother Theresa post graduate and research institute of health sciences. Puducherry, India. revapediatric@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Menopause marks a significant biological milestone in a woman's life, typically occurring around the age of 50, when ovarian function declines and menstrual periods cease. This physiological transition is accompanied by hormonal fluctuations, primarily a decrease in oestrogen and progesterone levels, which give rise to a diverse array of symptoms. These symptoms vary widely among women and can include physical manifestations such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, changes in libido, and bone density loss. Additionally, menopause can bring about psychological symptoms like mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and difficulties with memory and concentration. Beyond its purely biological aspects, menopause is profoundly influenced by cultural, social, and individual perceptions. Cultural beliefs and societal attitudes toward menopause vary globally, influencing how women perceive and experience this phase of life. In some cultures, menopause is viewed positively as a natural and respected transition associated with wisdom and maturity. In contrast, in other cultures, menopause may be stigmatized or viewed as a decline in femininity and fertility, impacting women's self-perception and their willingness to seek medical advice or support. Psychosocially, menopause can significantly impact a woman's well-being. Changes in hormone levels during menopause may affect self-esteem, body image, and interpersonal relationships. Women may experience shifts in sexual desire and intimacy, which can influence their overall quality of life. The psychosocial impact underscores the importance of creating supportive healthcare environments that address women's emotional needs and provide tailored interventions. Integrating biological, cultural, and psychosocial perspectives is essential for developing effective and personalized approaches to menopause care. Healthcare providers play a critical role in educating women about menopausal symptoms, discussing available treatment options such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or alternative therapies, and offering psychological support. By acknowledging the diversity of menopausal experiences and respecting cultural contexts, healthcare providers can enhance women's health outcomes and quality of life during this natural life transition. Menopause represents more than a biological event—it is a complex interplay of physiological changes, cultural influences, and psychosocial responses. A comprehensive understanding of menopausal symptoms and perceptions is crucial for delivering compassionate and effective care that supports women through this significant life stage

Key words: Menopause, Menopausal symptoms, Hormonal fluctuations, Cultural beliefs Psychosocial impact, Healthcare interventions, Quality of life