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Menopause: Irish women's voices
1Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia. hugo@minopher.net.au
Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing : JOGNN
|August 10, 2000
Summary
Irish women view menopause as a natural part of aging, not an illness. This study highlights the relief and satisfaction many feel, despite some challenging symptoms, emphasizing its cultural context.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Women's Health
- Cultural Anthropology
Background:
- Menopause is a significant life transition for women.
- Cultural interpretations of menopause can vary widely.
- Understanding these interpretations is crucial for women's health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the cultural meanings of menopause for women in Ireland.
- To understand how the Irish sociocultural context shapes menopausal experiences.
Main Methods:
- Phenomenological study using Colaizzi's methodology.
- In-depth interviews with six rural Irish women who are 1-6 years postmenopausal.
- Interviews conducted in participants' homes to ensure comfort and privacy.
Main Results:
- Irish women perceive menopause as a natural aging process, not an illness.
- Key themes include relief, acceptance, and satisfaction with family completion.
- A paradox of relief alongside symptoms like heavy bleeding was noted.
Conclusions:
- Menopause is experienced as a normal life event by rural Irish women in this study.
- Experiences are deeply influenced by the sociocultural context.
- Menopause is a complex phenomenon shaped by cultural perspectives.