Perceptions and attitudes towards menopause and perceived satisfaction with life

Introduction:
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, typically occurring in mid-adulthood, and is characterised by various biological, psychological, and social changes. This study explores the relationship between women’s perceptions of menopause, their attitudes toward it, and their overall life satisfaction during this period. Additionally, it examines the impact of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the different stages of menopause on these perceptions and attitudes.

Material and methods:
A total of 267 women aged 40–65 years were enrolled in the study. An online form was distributed across social platforms. The menopause rating scale, the skala oceny menopauzy (menopause attitude scale), and the satisfaction with life scale were used.

Results:
There is a negative correlation between severity of menopausal symptoms and life satisfaction [r = –0.488; p < 0.001; CI95 = (–1; –0.407)]. Menopausal symptoms assessment was found to correlate with the generalised attitude towards menopause [r = –0.657; p < 0.001; CI95 = (–1; –0.596)]. A positive correlation was found between attitudes towards menopause and life satisfaction [r = 0.596; p < 0.001; CI95 = (0.526; 1)]. Generalised attitudes toward menopause partially mediate the relationship between the assessment of menopausal symptoms and perceived life satisfaction.

Conclusions:
The menopausal stage affects how symptoms and attitudes toward menopause are evaluated. The use of HRT also differentiates these factors. Results show links between symptom evaluation, life satisfaction, and general attitudes toward menopause. Moreover, general attitudes toward menopause influence the relationship between symptom evaluation and life satisfaction.