Positive aspects of menopause: a qualitative study.
OBJECTIVE
As a part of a larger study, "Menopause described from the woman's perspective", it has been the aim to explore whether women have any positive experiences in relation to menopause, and if so, the nature of these experiences.


METHODS
In a questionnaire, sent to a random sample of 51 year-old Danish women, there was included an open-ended question concerning the course of menopause. A qualitative approach has been used in the analyses.


RESULTS
393 women have answered the open-ended question. One hundred and ninety four women did describe positive aspects of menopause. The total number of different quotations with a positive content was 268. The answers varied from unspecific statements describing a period of well-being or simply a statement of not having problems at all, and concrete descriptions which primarily dealt with the relief of ending menstruating and attached problems, such as PMS and fear of pregnancy. Finally they dealt with the possibility of personal growth and freedom to concentrate on own requirements.


CONCLUSIONS
The positive aspect of menopause is a relevant field to investigate further, quantitatively as well as qualitatively. It is recommended that doctors include positive aspects and women's own resources in counselling, to avoid medicalization and dis-empowerment in this period of life.
Hvas
L
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Department of General Practice and Central Research Unit, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, DK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark. lotte.hvas@dadlnet.dk
D001290:Attitude; D003718:Denmark; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008593:Menopause / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016387:Women's Health