Evaluation of experiences and difficulties of menopausal women applying to family health center: A qualitative study

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Menopause is a natural process characterized by the cessation of the menstrual cycle and the occurrence of physiological and psychosocial changes in women. This study aims to examine women's menopause experiences, coping strategies, and the role of family medicine in this process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was conducted using a qualitative methodology. Sixteen women aged 40 to 65, who were in the natural menopausal period and applied to the Training Family Health Center affiliated with the Department of Family Medicine at Sakarya Training and Research Hospital, participated in the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview form and audio recordings. The obtained data were categorized into five main themes and related sub-themes. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 54.56 ± 3.48 SD years, with a median age of 55, ranging from 48 to 62 years. Among the participants, 50% had been in menopause for 0–5 years, 43.75% for 5–10 years, and 6.25% for 11 years or longer. The data from the interviews were organized under five primary themes: perception of menopause, physical and psychological effects, coping strategies, social support, and impact on life. Participants defined menopause as the onset of aging and the end of the menstrual cycle, considering it a natural developmental process. The significance of individual coping methods and social support in managing physical and psychological symptoms was emphasized. CONCLUSION: Women in the menopausal period experience various challenges on physical, emotional, and social levels. In coping with these difficulties, the importance of both individual strategies and support from the healthcare system is substantial. Family medicine units are recommended to provide more comprehensive, informative, and supportive services tailored to women undergoing the menopausal transition.