Abstract

Objective: We aimed to define viewpoints and troubles of the climacteric women about menopause.

Material & Methods: A phenomenological approach was used. Data were collected by in-depth individual interviews and analyzed according to thematic analysis procedures. A purposive sample of twelve women presented to the menopausal polyclinic in Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty Hospital between November-December 2013 were included in this study. Voice recordings were performed during the interviews with permissions of women and the notes were put in writing.

Results: Four themes were defined in this study, including menopausal symptoms, menopause sensation, changes in the life quality and handling methods. Frequently reported complaints included hot flush, sweating, increased irritability, decreased lubrication, dyspareunia and lower back pain. Although menopause was defined as a normal process for women, it also meant elderliness and end of the fertility. Women in this period of life reported some changes and problems impairing their quality of life such as the emergence of physical illnesses, lack of appetite for sex, decreased frequency of coitus, conflicts between partners and insomnia. Methods for dealing with these changes were reported as dealing with grandchildren or houseworks, spiritual defection such as praying and fasting, activities like sports, seeking medical support and hormone therapy.

Conclusion: Menopause is a period of life in which various changes are seen, affecting women from the biopsychosocial perspective. Women in this period should be informed about menopause, undergo necessary tests and therapies and, psychologically strengthened.