Menopausal wellbeing: navigating quality of life and osteoporosis risk

Multifaceted dimensions influence the quality of life among post-menopausal women. Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by fragile bones, poses a significant risk, potentially leading to fractures and decreased wellbeing. This study aims to assess the quality of life of postmenopausal women, its determinants, and also the risk of osteoporosis among them.

A cross-sectional study was done among 379 post-menopausal women residing in rural and urban areas of Ernakulam district, Kerala, India. They were selected by probability proportional to size sampling from 10 clusters. Quality of life was measured using MENQOL-I questionnaire and osteoporosis risk assessment was done using OSTA score.

The study participants had a mean age of 60 years, (standard deviation of 6.83 years). On average, menopause occurred at 50.58 years (standard deviation of 4.28 years). The most common symptoms impacting quality of life among postmenopausal women were psychosocial symptoms, followed by physical and vasomotor symptoms. Furthermore, a high proportion (63.6%) of participants were at risk for osteoporosis. History of fracture, concern of falling, marital status and having an insurance, are factors associated with various domains of quality of life.

This study underscores the complex interplay of demographic factors, menopausal experiences, and their impact on the participants' quality of life. The prevalence of psychosocial symptoms and the significant risk of osteoporosis call for tailored healthcare interventions. Postmenopausal women with history of fracture, high concern of fall and single women require special attention. Encouraging women to take up selfcare practices will help during the menopausal transition to have a good quality of life.