Publication:

Quality of life of postmenopausal women in rural area of Northern Kerala: a community based cross-sectional study

Background Menopausal health requires greater attention in India due to increasing life expectancy and the growing population of postmenopausal women. Awareness regarding menopausal problems remains inadequate, especially among rural women, where menopause is often not openly discussed. This study aimed to assess the quality of life (QoL) of postmenopausal women in rural areas and examine its association with socio-demographic factors.

Method A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 postmenopausal women in Cheruthazham Panchayath from December 2021 to May 2023. Four wards were selected by simple random sampling, and 30 women from each ward were recruited consecutively. Data were collected through direct interviews using the MENQoL questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 24.

Results The mean age of participants was 52.59±3.31 years, and the mean age at menopause was 48.88±3.70 years. Most women were Hindus (87%), married (77%), and homemakers (52.5%). Comorbidities were present in 63% of women. Previous use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was reported by 9%. The overall QoL mean score was 2.84±1.2, indicating a mild decline in QoL. Vasomotor symptoms had the highest mean score (4.09±2.5), with hot flushes being the commonest symptom (63.3%). Psychosocial symptoms were reported by 83%, mainly anxiety (47.5%), while physical symptoms were reported by 92%, with tiredness being most common (65.8%). Significant associations were observed between age and QoL, age at menopause and psychosocial domain, and HRT use and QoL.

Conclusion Postmenopausal women showed a mild decline in QoL, with vasomotor, psychosocial, and physical symptoms being commonly reported.