Laburpena
Purpose: Menopause is a maturational process that
can be asymptomatic but severe physical and
psychological changes can impact negatively on the
quality of life in some women. The study explored
selected Nigerian Ibo women’s menopause transition
experiences, impact on quality of life, and coping
strategies as their experiences has been understudied.
Materials and Methods: A community-based
qualitative study was done with 15 purposively
selected rural women aged 45years and above.
Through audio-taped two focus group discussions
(FGD) and an in-depth interview, data were
collected, transcribed and content analyzed using the
thematic deductive approach.
Results: Four themes emerged: perceived
menopausal meaning, distressing symptoms
experienced, self-care/coping, and desired
anticipatory information needs. Menopause was
perceived as the beginning of getting old but freedom
from messy blood stains and fear of pregnancy.
Distressful symptoms impact negatively on the quality
of life. Symptom management was based on trial and
error. Inadequate information was received from
women’s meetings prior to menopause and from
health workers and friends when symptoms had
already become distressing.
Conclusion: Menopause transition among Ibo midlife
women in the selected community brought a feeling
of freedom from monthly wetness but gave way to
distressing symptoms that reduced quality of life.
Structured education and information sharing before
menopause will enable women to know what to
expect and how to manage symptoms thereby
improving quality of life.
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