Coping with stress of perimenopausal women in relation to the intensity of climacteric symptoms

Introduction. Menopause is related to inevitable changes in physiological, physical, psychological, social and cultural spheres. Numerous complications involve cardiovascular, nervous and urogenital systems as well as psycho-emotional sphere.

Aim. The aim of this study was to assess various styles of coping with stress by women in relation to the severity of menopausal symptoms.

Material and methods. This survey-based study involved 305 peri-menopausal women of aged 45–55 years. The tools employed were: an original questionnaire, the Blatt-Kupperman scale, the Questionnaire of Coping with Stress, and the Beck Depression Inventory.

Results. A vast majority of them (68.20%) did not suffer from climacteric symptoms, 13.44% noted mild peri-menopusal symptoms, 6.89% had medium-intensity symptoms, and 11.48% had severe climacteric symptoms. In 70% of respondents no signs of depression were observed. About 17% were slightly more depressive. Moderate depressive mood occurred in 8%, and severe depressiveness in 5%. A task-oriented style of coping with stress was chosen by 23.61% of women, while only 17.70% employed an emotion-centered style. A stress avoidance style prevailed in 24.26% of respondents.

Conclusions.

1. The occurrence of severe climacteric symptoms in women is related to their severe depressive symptoms. This information can be used by general practitioners and gynaeclogists to prevent symptoms of clinical depression.

2. The majority of women had constructive attitudes to stress — they focused on tasks and undertook effective actions. Unfortunately, avoidance of stress through refusing to experience and contemplate it is a popular strategy.

Nursing Topics 2014; 22 (1): 82–90