Experiencing menopause in the UK: The interrelated narratives of normality, distress, and transformation. (2nd November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: de Salis, Isabel; Owen-Smith, Amanda; Donovan, Jenny L.; Lawlor, Debbie A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of women & aging. Volume 30:Number 6(2018)
• Page Start: 520
• Page End: 540
• Publication Date: 2018-11-02
• Subjects: Idiom of distress -- in-depth interviews -- menopause -- qualitative research -- rite of passage -- transformation -- UK -- women's health; Social work with older people -- United States -- Periodicals; Social work with women -- United States -- Periodicals; Older women -- United States -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2018.1396783
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0895-2841

Abstract

ABSTRACT: We investigated the experience and perspectives of menopause among 48 UK mothers through qualitative in-depth interviews. Interviews were analyzed thematically then explored using social science theories. Three interdependent narratives emerged: menopause as a normal, biological process, distinct from self and social transitions; menopause as struggle, an "idiom of distress" expressing upset, identity loss, shame, and social upheaval; and menopause as transformative and liberating, arising from biopsychic and relational changes. Some women followed a predictable "rite of passage" trajectory with transformation emerging from distress, but not all: Menopause arises from a complex interplay of personal predicament, somatic change, and sociocultural context.