Working as a Registered Nurse During Menopause-A Multiple Methods Study

To describe the experiences of Finnish registered nurses aged 45 and over working during menopause.

Multiple methods study.

The data were collected from Finnish registered nurses aged 45 and over, using two different methods. Quantitative data (n = 3487), collected in January 2023, were analysed using descriptive statistical methods. Qualitative data were collected during the summer of 2023 through individual interviews (n = 23). The participants were recruited from a survey, where registered nurses (n = 3487) who responded to the survey indicated their willingness to participate in the interview study (n = 718). Participants for the interviews were selected through random sampling, and interviews were conducted until saturation was reached. The quantitative data were analysed with descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were analysed using inductive content analysis. The results of quantitative and qualitative data were combined in the discussion section.

Limited attention has been given to understanding the menopause and its consequences on the nursing workforce. Menopause remains a taboo topic, with a perceived divide between genders and generations, even within the healthcare sector. However, peer support from female colleagues of a similar age was considered invaluable. During menopause, nurses did not receive sufficient support from their managers or occupational health services, despite experiencing various challenges. Fatigue, for instance, was reported by 76% of nurses aged 45 and over. Nevertheless, nurses continued working despite their symptoms, as taking sick leave was perceived as difficult.

The consequences of menopause on nursing work are not yet sufficiently recognised within workplaces, or by the leadership and occupational health services. Support for nurses working during menopause seems to be insufficient. Open and informed discussions are needed across various levels of society to increase understanding of the problems of working during menopause.

The research findings can be used to develop improved occupational health and nursing management practices to support the well-being of menopausal nurses in the workplace.

Currently, there is insufficient knowledge about working as a registered nurse during menopause. However, research findings are enhancing our understanding of the impact of menopause on nursing work and the corresponding needs during this period.

The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR).