First Nations women's knowledge of menopause: experiences and perspectives

To understand and describe the menopause experiences and perspectives of First Nations women residing in northwestern Ontario.

Phenomenologic approach using in-depth qualitative interviews.

Sioux Lookout, Ont, and 4 surrounding First Nations communities.

Eighteen perimenopausal and postmenopausal First Nations women, recruited by convenience and snowball sampling techniques.

Semistructured interviews were audiotaped and transcribed. Themes emerged through a crystallization and immersion analytical approach. Triangulation of methods was used to ensure reliability of findings.

This study confirms the hypothesis that menopause is generally not discussed by First Nations women, particularly with their health care providers. The generational knowledge gained by the women in this study suggests that a variety of experiences and symptoms typical of menopause from a medical perspective might not be conceptually linked to menopause by First Nations women. The interview process and initial consultation with translators revealed that there is no uniform word in Ojibway or Oji-Cree for menopause. A common phrase is "that time when periods stop," which can be used by caregivers as a starting point for discussion. Participants' interest in the topic and their desire for more information might imply that they would welcome the topic being raised by health care providers.

This study speaks to the importance of understanding the different influences on a woman's menopause experience. Patient communication regarding menopause might be enhanced by providing women with an opportunity or option to discuss the topic with their health care providers. Caregivers should also be cautious of attaching preconceived ideas to the meaning and importance of the menopause experience.