Menopause: a qualitative study of Jordanian women's perceptions.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this descriptive qualitative study was to describe the perceptions of Jordanian midlife women about making the menopausal transition.

METHODS

Audio taped interviews were conducted with 25 peri-menopausal Jordanian women. Interviews were analysed as appropriate for descriptive qualitative inquiry.

RESULTS

The major theme generated was 'A Life Transition', which included: a time of no more reproductive obligations, changing from the burdens and obligations of reproductive roles and responsibilities to freedom, relief and rest; a time for managing peri-menopausal symptoms; and a time for growing into a wise woman and accepting aging as a part of life.

NURSING IMPLICATIONS

These data can assist healthcare providers to provide culturally competent health care to midlife Jordanian women. Support groups may be helpful to facilitate connections between midlife women, increase self-awareness, assist women to come to value their menopausal experiences, to manage their symptoms appropriately through self-care measures and healthcare interventions and to more fully embrace being 'wise women'.