Life Beyond Reproductive Years: Examining Menopausal Symptoms, Its Predictors and Management in India

Background In India, menopause and its management are often debated, which is mainly because the cultural silence around this subject and are rarely discussed openly. However, many women perceive it as a natural process of ageing, bringing respect and authority within families as elders, and liberating them from menstrual cycle restrictions. Research on menopausal symptoms in India is typically region-specific or clinical, primarily focusing on symptoms categories. Hence, this study examines menopausal symptoms prevalence, variations, predictors, and its management using large-scale data. Methods Using data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India wave one, the menopausal symptoms were classified into (somatic, urogenital, psychological) adopting the Menopause Rating Scale classification and logistic regression analysis was employed to understand its predictors. Prevalence of women-specific morbidities (gynaecological morbidities and other morbidities) and seeking treatment for these morbidities were also analysed to understand menopausal management among women. Results Unlike the general belief, 80% of women experienced menopausal symptoms, with somatic and psychological symptoms prevailing highest. Higher odds of menopausal symptoms were found among rural women, richer women, women with more pregnancies, hysterectomised, anaemic, hypertensive, diabetic, and smoking women. Women from Eastern region had high prevalence of menopausal symptoms, while those from the Southern region sought more treatment. Treatment was sought only for severe morbidities, particularly for gynaecological morbidities. Conclusion Proper education on reproductive and sexual health is crucial for women’s understanding of menopausal health. The mass media can be a powerful tool for promoting awareness, focusing on lifestyle habits like regular exercise, proper nutrition, and the elimination of smoking and alcohol among women in this age group. Increasing awareness related to menopause might reduce stigma related to it, encourage treatment seeking, and help women better prepare for this life stage. Healthcare initiatives should focus on enhancing accessibility and symptom management support for women in rural areas, particularly in the Eastern region. Thus, to achieve the goal of "health for all" and women empowerment, India's health policies must extend their focus on women's health beyond reproductive years.