Factors that Influence Women's Decision During Menopause
Graduation Date
2003
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Nursing
Department or Program Chair
Barbara Ganley, PhD
Thesis Advisor
Luanne Linnard-Palmer, EdD, RN
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the factors that influence women’s self care choices during the perimenopause to menopause transition. A qualitative grounded theory design guided the research. Ten women, self reported as being perimenopausal or menopausal, were selected through a nominated sampling process. To explore the women’s experiences, and the factors that were influential in their individual approach to care, data were gathered through semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Data analysis was accomplished through data coding, categorizing and subcategorizing, and theme abstraction. Three primary themes emerged to compose the factors that influenced women’s choices during this phase of life; 1) An initial inkling of a personal change in well being which was often associated with a period of uncertainty; 2) decision points concerning symptom management that occurred once or several times over the perimenopause transition; and 3) ways of self care, which included strictly personal care, care women sought from a health professional, and support received through relationships with other women. Universal to the women’s experiences was the influence of individual life philosophy and values within a social context.