PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS OF MENOPAUSE AMONG WOMEN IN IDEMILI NORTH-LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Menopause is an age-related phase of physiological transition of females. It is the cessation of the menstrual cycle, which starts between ages 40-55 years due to decreased levels of feminine estrogen reproductive hormone. This physiological transition may be mild or severe with psychological implications that may hamper quality of life. The study aims at finding out the psychological implications of menopause among women in Idemili-North Local Government of Anambra State, Nigeria. The participants (120 women) were selected through simple random sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the participants. The findings showed that women experience various psychological challenges and need to be educated prior to this menopausal period. Interventional strategies that target at reducing psychological distress and promoting the ability to cope with midlife transition among menopausal women need to be greatly encouraged.