title: Menstruation during a lifespan: A qualitative study of women's experiences.
abstract: Menstruation is a natural phenomenon for women during their reproductive years. Our aim was to describe women's experiences of menstruation across the lifespan. Qualitative interviews with a narrative approach were conducted with 12 women between 18 and 48 years of age in Sweden. Using thematic analysis, we found menstruation to be a complex phenomenon that binds women together. It is perceived as an intimate and private matter, which makes women want to conceal the occurrence of menstrual bleeding. Over time, menstruation becomes a natural part of women's lives and gender identity. Health professionals play a central role supporting women to deal with menstruation.
authors: a Division of Nursing Science, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , Linköping University , Linköping , Sweden.
authors: Ida Emilie
authors: IE
authors: Brantelid
authors: Helena
authors: H
authors: Nilvér
authors: Siw
authors: S
authors: Alehagen
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008598:Menstruation / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D033262:Narration; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012747:Sexual Partners; D013548:Sweden; D016387:Women's Health; D055815:Young Adult