Is this menopause? Women in midlife--psychosocial issues.
BACKGROUND
Psychosocial influences have been found to impact on the symptoms a woman may experience as she moves through the menopause transition. Consequently any assessment of the menopausal woman should include an exploration and understanding of how the many psychosocial factors influence the experience of menopause and midlife.


OBJECTIVE
This article describes the many psychosocial factors that influence the experience of menopause including midlife issues, role and purpose in life, interpersonal relationships, libido, personality, psychological history and present psychological functioning, body image and sociocultural issues. Case studies are included to illustrate the importance of including psychosocial factors in the assessment and treatment of the menopausal woman.


CONCLUSIONS
Any assessment of the menopause experience should include psychosocial influences and the context of women's lives. In a consultation where both the physical and psychosocial issues are explored, we come closer to addressing the true needs of each patient.
Deeks
Amanda A
AA
The Jean Hailes Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria.
D000339:Affect; D001828:Body Image; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007989:Libido; D008593:Menopause / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012944:Social Support