Knowledge, Attitude, Problems, and Coping Measures among Menopausal Women in Rural Punjab: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Background: Menopause is a universal transition in women’s lives, often accompanied by physical, psychological, and social challenges. In rural India, limited awareness and suboptimal coping strategies can adversely affect quality of life. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, problems faced, and coping strategies among menopausal women in rural Punjab, and to examine their associations with selected demographic variables.

Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental descriptive research design was adopted for the present study. The study was conducted in selected rural areas of Derabassi, District Mohali, Punjab. A total of 100 menopausal women were selected using purposive sampling technique. The conceptual framework was based on Roy’s Adaptation Model. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule and a five-point Likert attitude scale. Content validity was established through expert opinion, and reliability was assessed using test–retest and split-half methods. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test and analysis of variance [ANOVA]).

Results: Knowledge 86% average, 9% good, 5% poor. Attitude 64% neutral, 32% positive, 4% negative. Common problems included night sweats (59%), hot flushes (56%), flatulence (53%), burning micturition (52%), weight gain (26%), palpitations (17%), chest pain (11%), dryness around genital organs (17%), constipation (13%), and joint swelling (12%). Education was significantly associated with knowledge (P < 0.001; ANOVA P < 0.005) and attitude (P < 0.029); source of information was associated with attitude (P < 0.04).

Conclusion: Rural menopausal women demonstrated limited knowledge and largely neutral attitudes, translating into inconsistent coping. Structured, nurse-led community education and counseling are recommended to improve adaptation and quality of life.