Attitudes toward menopause among Mexican American women.

An exploratory study was conducted to determine Mexican American women's attitudes toward menopause and the relationships between these attitudes and socioeconomic status, level of acculturation, menopausal status, symptoms, self-esteem, and social support. The sample included 130 Mexican American women who ranged in age from 28 to 75 years. Attitudes did not differ by socioeconomic status, menopausal status, or number and severity of symptoms. More positive attitudes were reported by less acculturated women and women with higher self-esteem. Menopause was perceived as a potentially disturbing transition, and irritability and depressive mood were expected. Findings support the need for more accessible information to decrease uncertainty and avert negative expectations.