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PERCEPTION AND EXPERIENCE OF MENOPAUSE AMONGST WOMEN IN OREDO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENIN CITY

Abstract

This study examined the perception and experience of menopause among women in Oredo Local Government Area, Benin City. A quantitative research design was employed, and a structured questionnaire was developed to collect data from a sample of 133 respondents. The data were analyzed using SPSS27, and t-test statistics were applied to test the hypotheses set for the study. The research aimed to explore how women in Oredo LGA perceive menopause, the physical and psychological symptoms they experience, and the coping strategies they adopt. The findings indicated that the majority of women in the area viewed menopause as a natural and inevitable phase of life. Most respondents acknowledged that menopause brought significant changes to their bodies and lives. In terms of physical symptoms, the women commonly reported experiencing hot flashes, night sweats, and fatigue, while psychological symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and anxiety were also frequently observed. The study revealed that many women employed various coping mechanisms, with a significant number relying on herbal remedies and traditional treatments. Additionally, a considerable portion of respondents sought emotional support from family, friends, and support groups to help manage the psychological challenges associated with menopause. Regarding the hypotheses tested, the study found a significant relationship between the perception of menopause and the physical symptoms experienced by the women. It was also revealed that psychological symptoms, such as mood swings and irritability, were significantly related to the coping strategies employed by the women. However, the research did not find significant differences in the perception and experience of menopause based on socio-economic factors such as education level and income. The study concluded that menopause has a profound effect on women’s physical, emotional, and psychological health in Oredo LGA. It highlighted the importance of raising awareness about menopause and providing support to women undergoing this life phase. The findings suggest that women rely on a combination of traditional and social support systems to cope with the challenges of menopause. Consequently, the study calls for further research to explore other potential socio-cultural factors that may influence women’s menopause experiences and the development of targeted interventions to support women through this life transition.

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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION

1.1       Background to the Study

Menopause is a significant phase in a woman’s life, marking the end of her reproductive years and often bringing with it a host of physical, emotional, and psychological changes. It is defined as the cessation of menstruation for 12 consecutive months and typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. During this period, many women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and a decline in bone density. The experience of menopause, however, is not universal and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including cultural beliefs, social influences, and individual health conditions (Adegoke, Iranloye, & Osiibogun, 2022).

Menopause is commonly regarded as a natural part of aging, yet its significance varies across cultures and societies. In many cultures, particularly in African societies like Nigeria, menopause is often associated with negative connotations such as aging, the loss of fertility, and a perceived decline in overall health (Barbara, Nancy, Peter, & Tom, 2023). These perceptions can significantly impact how women approach and experience the menopause transition. In many Nigerian communities, menopause is not only seen as a personal health issue but also a socio-cultural marker that can affect a woman’s status and role within the family and society. As such, it is crucial to understand how different cultural contexts influence women’s perceptions of menopause (Avis & McKinlay, 2021).

At the same time, there is emerging evidence that menopause can be experienced positively. For some women, the transition is a time of personal growth, liberation from the fear of pregnancy, and greater self-awareness. Women may embrace this life stage as an opportunity to focus on their health, family, and career without the concerns of fertility and reproduction (Cobb, 2020). Research suggests that a positive attitude toward menopause can lead to a better overall experience, with women reporting fewer symptoms and a better quality of life. However, these experiences are not uniform, and personal, social, and cultural factors play a crucial role in shaping how women perceive and experience menopause (Igbo & Ako, 2022).

In the Nigerian context, and specifically in Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benin City, Edo State, the perception and experience of menopause may be influenced by the unique cultural, religious, and social dynamics that exist in the region. Oredo LGA is home to a diverse population, and this diversity could lead to a variety of experiences and attitudes toward menopause. Understanding how women in Oredo LGA perceive and experience this life stage is essential for providing appropriate healthcare, psychological support, and addressing the specific needs of menopausal women in the region (Ozumba, Obi, Obikili, & Waboso, 2024).

Despite the significant role that menopause plays in a woman’s life, it remains a topic that is often under-researched, especially in specific geographical areas like Oredo LGA. Previous studies have primarily focused on the experiences of women in urban settings, but little is known about how women in Oredo LGA, Benin City, perceive menopause and navigate its challenges. This gap in the literature makes it important to explore the experiences of menopausal women in this area. By doing so, it will be possible to identify the unique challenges they face and offer recommendations to improve their overall wellbeing (Reynolds & Obermeyer, 2021).

The growing body of research on menopause suggests that women’s perceptions of menopause are shaped by multiple factors, including health education, personal experiences, societal expectations, and family dynamics (Ferguson, Hoegh, & Johnson, 2022). In the Nigerian context, women’s experiences of menopause may differ based on socioeconomic status, level of education, and access to healthcare. These factors may either exacerbate or alleviate the symptoms associated with menopause, influencing how women manage their health and wellbeing during this life stage (Tang, 2020).

Understanding the perceptions and experiences of menopause among women in Oredo LGA is not only important for improving healthcare services but also for fostering a supportive environment that acknowledges the complexities of this life transition. By exploring these experiences in-depth, it becomes possible to highlight the challenges women face and the coping mechanisms they employ. This research can also contribute to the development of more inclusive healthcare policies and programs that are tailored to meet the needs of menopausal women in Oredo LGA (Senwna, 2022).

Research on menopause is particularly relevant in Nigeria, where there is a growing recognition of the importance of women’s health and wellbeing, yet significant gaps remain in addressing the specific needs of menopausal women. By exploring the experiences and perceptions of menopause among women in Oredo LGA, this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of this life stage and its implications for women’s health and social roles in the region (Fisbien & Ajzen, 2021). It will also provide valuable insights into the cultural attitudes towards menopause, which are often influenced by societal norms, religion, and traditional beliefs.

Moreover, this study will provide important data that can be used by healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders to better address the needs of menopausal women. It will help shape the development of more targeted interventions aimed at improving the physical and mental health of women during this transitional phase. It will also encourage discussions on the need for public health education programs that focus on menopause, its symptoms, and coping strategies (Edwards, Linotsky, & Tunner, 2021).

Given the growing recognition of the importance of women’s health, especially in the context of menopause, understanding the experiences of women in Oredo LGA, Benin City, will not only contribute to the academic body of knowledge but also provide practical insights for improving healthcare provision and support for menopausal women. By examining both the positive and negative perceptions of menopause, this study aims to foster a holistic understanding of how menopausal women can be better supported by both healthcare providers and society at large (Adegoke, Iranloye, & Osiibogun, 2022).

1.2       Statement of the Problem

Despite the natural biological nature of menopause, it remains a topic that is often overlooked in both healthcare and societal discourse, especially in the context of Nigerian women. While there have been studies on menopause in Western contexts, research focusing on the perceptions and experiences of menopause in Nigerian settings, particularly in Oredo Local Government Area (LGA), is scarce. Most existing studies on menopause in Nigeria have been limited to general discussions of health impacts or urban settings, leaving gaps in understanding the unique socio-cultural dynamics in more localized regions like Oredo LGA (Adegoke, Iranloye, & Osiibogun, 2022). Furthermore, many of the existing studies have not fully explored how cultural and social factors, such as religious beliefs, family expectations, and regional variations, influence how women experience menopause.

In Nigerian societies, menopause is often stigmatized and associated with aging, loss of fertility, and a perceived decline in a woman’s health (Avis & McKinlay, 2021). However, research on the nuanced experiences of menopausal women in Oredo LGA, Benin City, has not been sufficiently conducted. Women in this region may have distinct experiences shaped by their local customs, access to healthcare, and societal expectations. While some studies in other parts of Nigeria have focused on the physiological symptoms of menopause, there is a limited understanding of how women in Oredo LGA perceive menopause, how they cope with its symptoms, and how these experiences affect their roles within the family and society (Ozumba, Obi, Obikili, & Waboso, 2024).

Another gap in the literature is the lack of research addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of menopause in Nigerian women. Many studies focus on physical symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats (Edwards, Linotsky, & Tunner, 2021), but there is little exploration into how menopause affects women’s mental and emotional wellbeing in Nigeria, particularly in localized areas like Oredo LGA. Understanding the emotional experiences, including feelings of isolation, fear of aging, or liberation from the fear of pregnancy, could greatly inform healthcare professionals on how to provide holistic care to menopausal women (Cobb, 2020).

Furthermore, while global studies have examined menopause from a biomedical perspective, there is a dearth of research on the socio-cultural dynamics of menopause in specific Nigerian contexts. Women in Oredo LGA may face challenges in navigating menopause due to traditional gender roles, which often emphasize women’s roles as mothers and wives, leading to a possible sense of loss or identity crisis upon entering menopause (Barbara et al., 2023). This cultural aspect requires further exploration to develop more culturally sensitive healthcare interventions that can support menopausal women.

1.3       Objective of the Study

The primary objective of this study is to examine the perceptions and experiences of menopause among women in Oredo Local Government Area, Benin City. The specific objectives are:

1. To explore the perception of menopause among women in Oredo LGA.
2. To investigate the physical and psychological experiences of menopause as reported by women in the region.
3. To identify the coping strategies used by menopausal women in Oredo LGA to manage symptoms and challenges.

1.4       Research Questions

To guide this study, the following research questions will be addressed:

1. How do women in Oredo LGA perceive menopause and its associated symptoms?
2. What are the common physical and psychological experiences of menopause reported by women in Oredo LGA?
3. What coping mechanisms or strategies do women in Oredo LGA employ to manage the symptoms and challenges of menopause?

 

1.5       Research Hypotheses

Based on the objectives and research questions, the following hypotheses will be tested:

1. There is no significant relationship between the perception of menopause and the physical symptoms experienced by women in Oredo LGA.
2. Psychological symptoms of menopause are not significantly related to the coping mechanisms employed by women in Oredo LGA.
3. There is no significant difference in the perception and experience of menopause based on socio-economic factors such as education level and income.

1.6       Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons. First, it contributes to the limited body of research on menopause in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the urban population of Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) in Benin City. While menopause is a natural biological process experienced by women worldwide, there is a notable lack of research on how it is perceived and experienced by women in various Nigerian communities. Most existing studies have focused on physical symptoms or generalized views of menopause in urban settings, with very few studies specifically examining the urban population in Oredo LGA. By focusing on this region, the study aims to fill an important gap in the literature, offering a deeper understanding of how menopause is experienced by women in this particular cultural and social context.

In addition, this study holds significant health implications. By gaining insight into the perceptions and experiences of menopause among women in Oredo LGA, the research can inform the design of more effective health education and intervention programs. Tailored programs that address the unique challenges faced by menopausal women in this region can be developed, ensuring that these women receive appropriate and culturally sensitive care. This is especially important as women in different regions may experience menopause differently, and programs must be adaptable to local norms, beliefs, and attitudes surrounding this life stage. Furthermore, understanding how menopause affects women’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being can lead to better healthcare practices that enhance their quality of life during this transitional period.

The findings of this study can also guide policymakers and healthcare providers in improving menopausal care and support services. As menopausal care in Nigeria often lacks adequate attention, the research can offer valuable insights into how health policies can be developed to address this gap. The study may help policymakers recognize the importance of providing comprehensive services for menopausal women, such as counseling, health education, and access to medical treatments, while ensuring that these services are culturally sensitive and aligned with the unique challenges faced by women in Oredo LGA.

Lastly, this research has the potential to foster social change by reducing the stigma and misconceptions surrounding menopause. Many women in Nigeria, as in other parts of the world, experience shame or isolation due to the societal taboos and stereotypes associated with menopause. By promoting a more open and supportive dialogue about women’s health, this study can help create an environment where menopause is discussed more freely, reducing societal stigma and encouraging more women to seek the help and support they need during this critical stage of life. Through this, the study can promote greater social understanding and support for menopausal women, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and health-conscious community.

1.7       Scope of the Study
This study is significant for several reasons. First, it contributes to the limited body of research on menopause in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the urban population of Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) in Benin City. While menopause is a natural biological process experienced by women worldwide, there is a notable lack of research on how it is perceived and experienced by women in various Nigerian communities. Most existing studies have focused on physical symptoms or generalized views of menopause in urban settings, with very few studies specifically examining the urban population in Oredo LGA. By focusing on this region, the study aims to fill an important gap in the literature, offering a deeper understanding of how menopause is experienced by women in this particular cultural and social context.

In addition, this study holds significant health implications. By gaining insight into the perceptions and experiences of menopause among women in Oredo LGA, the research can inform the design of more effective health education and intervention programs. Tailored programs that address the unique challenges faced by menopausal women in this region can be developed, ensuring that these women receive appropriate and culturally sensitive care. This is especially important as women in different regions may experience menopause differently, and programs must be adaptable to local norms, beliefs, and attitudes surrounding this life stage. Furthermore, understanding how menopause affects women’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being can lead to better healthcare practices that enhance their quality of life during this transitional period.

The findings of this study can also guide policymakers and healthcare providers in improving menopausal care and support services. As menopausal care in Nigeria often lacks adequate attention, the research can offer valuable insights into how health policies can be developed to address this gap. The study may help policymakers recognize the importance of providing comprehensive services for menopausal women, such as counseling, health education, and access to medical treatments, while ensuring that these services are culturally sensitive and aligned with the unique challenges faced by women in Oredo LGA.

Lastly, this research has the potential to foster social change by reducing the stigma and misconceptions surrounding menopause. Many women in Nigeria, as in other parts of the world, experience shame or isolation due to the societal taboos and stereotypes associated with menopause. By promoting a more open and supportive dialogue about women’s health, this study can help create an environment where menopause is discussed more freely, reducing societal stigma and encouraging more women to seek the help and support they need during this critical stage of life. Through this, the study can promote greater social understanding and support for menopausal women, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and health-conscious community.

1.8       Operational Definition of Terms

1. Menopause: The natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without menstruation.
2. Perception: The way in which women interpret, understand, and form opinions about menopause and its symptoms.
3. Experience: The range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that women go through during menopause, including hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
4. Coping Mechanism: Strategies or actions employed by women to manage the symptoms and emotional challenges associated with menopause.
5. Physical Symptoms: The bodily changes that women experience during menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and changes in menstrual cycle.
6. Psychological Symptoms: Emotional and mental health challenges faced by women during menopause, including mood swings, depression, and anxiety.
7. Health Education: The process of providing information and guidance to women about menopause, its symptoms, and ways to manage them.
8. Socio-economic Factors: Aspects of a woman’s social and economic background, including education level, income, and employment status, that may influence her perception and experience of menopause.