Silence, Stigma, and Shame: Distress During the Menopause Transition

Purpose: Some women experience symptoms during the menopause transition that lead to consequent distress. This study explored the experience of distress for women during the menopausal transition. Research Questions: From the perspective of the woman during the menopause transition, what is the esse...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of midwifery & women's health 2008-09, Vol.53 (5), p.482-482
Main Authors: Nosek, Marcianna, Kennedy, Holly Powell, Gudmundsdottir, Maria
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aging
Emotional disorders
Menopause
Psychological distress
Quality of life
Risk factors
Shame
Stigmatization
Womens health
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Summary:Purpose: Some women experience symptoms during the menopause transition that lead to consequent distress. This study explored the experience of distress for women during the menopausal transition. Research Questions: From the perspective of the woman during the menopause transition, what is the essential experience of distress? How do women describe the relationship between aging and menopause? Significance/Background: A decreased quality of life is a consequence of distressful menopausal symptoms. Many risk factors for distress during menopause have been explored with some reinforcing negative stereotyping. Methods: Postmodern feminist theory and narrative analysis methodology were used to facilitate the understanding of how each woman defined distress and how this reflected the shared meanings imbedded in American society. Interviews of 17 women were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were re-transcribed into narratives and poetic structures. Findings: The women experienced a range of distressing symptoms. Themes of silence, shame, and stigma related to aging and menopause were identified. Contradicting social discourses and the specific context of each individual's life were found to greatly impact experiences of distress. Conclusion: Some women may be experiencing symptoms with a potential for distress and decreased quality of life. It is imperative that we understand the meaning and context imbedded in the women's experiences. Efforts need to be made to decrease the isolation and stigma associated with menopause and aging women.
ISSN:1526-9523
1542-2011
DOI:10.1016/j.jmwh.2008.05.017