European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: The various types of post-menopausal symptoms progressively worsen the well-being of
women and affect, consequently, their quality of life (QOL) on a daily basis.
Objectives
1. To determine the prevalence of poor quality of life among post-menopausal women of rural area.
2. To assess the factors responsible for the poor quality of life among post-menopausal women of rural
area.
Methods: A community based cross sectional observational study was carried out among 100
postmenopausal females aged between 40-60 yrs of age. The standardized Menopause-Specific Quality
of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were
used.
Results: Among the study participants, the most common symptoms in the physical domain were
“decrease in physical strength” (88%), “decrease in stamina” (81%) and “feeling tired and worn out”
(81%). Urinary incontinence was seen in 26% of women. In the psychosocial domain, “the feeling of
having the ability to accomplish less than previously” was the predominant one (78%). Among the
symptoms of sexual domain, “decrease in sexual desire” was the most common complaint (67%). Among
vasomotor symptoms, hot flashes were present in only 35% of participants. Those having low physical
activity were exposed to more postmenopausal symptoms as compared to those having moderate and
severe physical activity.
Conclusion: Menopause is associated with decrease in QOL. Awareness regarding menopausal
symptoms will lead to improvement in QOL by early recognition.