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Women's perceptions and experience of menopause: a focus group study
S Fox-Young1, M Sheehan, V O'Connor
1Queensland Nursing Council, Australia.
Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Women desire more open discussions about menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). They highlighted a need for accessible, reliable information and improved doctor-patient communication regarding women's health topics.
Area of Science:
- Women's Health
- Sociology of Health
- Medical Communication
Background:
- Menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and osteoporosis are significant health topics for women aged 45-55.
- Societal and community discussions on these subjects are often limited, leading to information gaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate women's perceptions and experiences regarding menopause, HRT, osteoporosis, and doctor-patient relationships.
- To identify barriers to information access and communication on these critical women's health issues.
Main Methods:
- Seven focus groups were conducted with 40 women aged 45-55.
- Researchers acted as moderators and scribes, with post-focus group meetings to clarify discussions.
Main Results:
- Women reported a lack of reliable, accessible, and current information, often finding available data contradictory.
- Specific information deficits were noted for hysterectomy and osteoporosis.
- Participants suggested distributing health information pamphlets in non-health settings and emphasized the need for open doctor-patient dialogue.
Conclusions:
- Focus groups effectively accessed women's experiences and perceptions on sensitive health topics.
- Enhanced doctor-patient partnerships are crucial for addressing women's health concerns.
- Strategies like utilizing non-traditional information dissemination channels and fostering open communication are recommended.