Life beyond Reproductive Years: Examining Menopausal Symptoms, Its Predictors and Management in India

Ranjita Ghosh, Institute for Social And Economic Change (ISEC), Bengaluru
Syamala T S

In India, menopause and its management are often debated, which is mainly because of the cultural silence around this subject and are rarely discussed openly.However,many women perceive it as a natural process of ageing, bringing respect and authority within families as elders, and liberating them from menstrual cycle restrictions.Research on menopausal symptoms in India is typically region-specific or clinical, primarily focusing on symptom categories.Hence, this study examines menopausal symptoms prevalence, variations, predictors, and menopausal management using large-scale data.Using data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India wave one, the symptoms were classified (somatic, urogenital, psychological) adopting the Menopause Rating Scale classification and binary logistic regression analysis was employed to understand its predictors.Women-specific morbidities were analysed and treatment-seeking behaviours were examined to understand menopausal management.Results showed that unlike the general belief, 80% of women experienced menopausal symptoms, with somatic and psychological symptoms prevailing highest.Higher odds of menopausal symptoms was found among rural and rich women, those with multiple pregnancies, hysterectomy, anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, or who smoked.Women from Eastern region had more symptoms, while those from Southern region sought more treatment.Treatment was sought for severe morbidities, particularly for gynaecological morbidities.Hence, addressing post-reproductive health is essential for achieving 'health for all' in India.

Keywords: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Health and Morbidity, Longitudinal studies , Population Ageing

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