Exploring Women’s Experiences, Influencing Factors, and Management Strategies for Menopausal Symptoms: A Qualitative Study

Authors

Abstract

Menopause is deeply shaped by cultural, socioeconomic, relational, and personal factors, resulting in diverse experiences. The stigma and taboos surrounding menopause often foster a culture of silence and a lack of support. In light of this, it is essential to foster a more informed understanding of this stage, challenge prevailing stigmas, and prepare women for the changes it entails. This study aims to explore women’s experiences of the menopausal transition and postmenopause, identify the factors influencing it, and examine the strategies they use to enhance their well-being. The analysis of twenty interviews highlights the complex interplay of factors shaping these experiences and reveals individual and collective strategies used to manage this life stage. It also highlights the need to promote a more realistic view of menopause, challenge prevailing conceptions of women’s aging, better prepare women for the expected changes, and advocate for an equitable approach across different life spheres.

Keywords

Menopause, Women’s Health, Life Experiences, Qualitative Research

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Author Biography

Clara Selva Olid, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya

PhD in Psychology from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, she is an Associate Professor, Deputy Director of Internships, and researcher at the Behavioural Design Lab (BDLab) at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. A specialist in gender, health, and career paths, she has led pioneering studies on menopause, well-being, and its impact on women at work.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5565/rev/qpsicologia.2313

Published

2025-12-30

How to Cite

Selva Olid, C. (2025). Exploring Women’s Experiences, Influencing Factors, and Management Strategies for Menopausal Symptoms: A Qualitative Study. Quaderns De Psicologia, 27(3), e2313. https://doi.org/10.5565/rev/qpsicologia.2313

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Copyright (c) 2025 Clara Selva Olid

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