Knowledge and Perception about Menopausal Symptoms among Market Women in the La-Nkwantanang Madina Municipality

Abstract

Background: Menopause is a natural phenomenon which every woman may experience in a lifetime. In Ghana, although the aged is being given care at various health centres, menopause a condition that comes with old age is not given much consideration. This study sought to examine what market women in the Madina La-Nkwantanang Municipality know and perceive about the menopause transition. Objective: The objective of the study is to determine the knowledge and perceptions about menopause among Perimenopause and Menopausal women in Madina La Nkwnatanang Municipality. Methods: A qualitative study of 17 in-depth interviews was conducted at the Madina Market. This included Six (6) Perimenopausal women and (9) Menopausal as part of the sample. Women between the ages of 40 to 65 years were used in the sample. Purposive and snowball sampling were used as a technique in selecting the sample for this study. With this, an initial person was selected who also directed the researcher to other women within the age range wanted. Data was then analysed using an inductive approach, thus using a predetermined framework in analysing data. Findings: Most of the women used for this study in one way or the other had some awareness and knowledge about the menopause condition. The sources where they got this information from were from friends and relations. They perceive the condition as a natural part of life. Most of them believe that once you are a woman you are eligible to experiencing the condition no matter who you are. Those already with the condition have accepted it as a part of life and those who are yet to, are prepared to face it when it finally arrives. Coping strategies they have adopted in minimising symptoms are herbal medication, dieting and the intake of ice cubes in managing hot flushes. Conclusion: Although there was some kind of awareness, in-depth understanding of the menopause condition is little. Therefore there is the need to consider counselling sessions, and also give education to older women approaching the menopause transition to increase knowledge.