Menopause and Marital Challenges: The Effects of Physical, Psychological and Economic Changes on the Quality of Life of Couples

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 PhD candidate in Midwifery Department, Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Specialist in toxicology and forensic medicine Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

3 Department of Midwifery, Menopause Andropause Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.

10.22038/jmrh.2024.80171.2401

Abstract

Background & aim: Menopause is a natural process in a woman's life , but it is often accompanied by changes and challenges that can affect couples' quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explain couples' experiences of challenges and changes in quality of life among postmenopausal women.
Materials & Methods:  This study  using the qualitative content analysis was conducted on 15 women entering the menopause and their husbands in southwestern Iran. A total of 30 people participated in the study. The data were collected using the  in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The conventional content analysis method proposed by Graneheim and Lundman was  also used to analyze the data.
Results: The experiences of postmenopausal women and their husbands about challenges and changes in quality of life were classified into one main Theme of "the fading of life's pleasures" and four categories: a) challenges related to the psychosocial health, b) challenges related to the physical health, c) challenges related to the sexual health, and d) economic challenges.
Conclusion:  This study emphasized the multifaceted challenges of menopause, advocating for attention to  both the physical and mental health needs of postmenopausal women and their partners. It also highlighted the significance of couples' sexual dynamics and economic factors. The research recommendations for healthcare include a holistic approach that prioritizes education, support, and treatment to enhance the quality of life  of  both women and their partners during this transition.

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Journal of Midwifery and Reproductive Health

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 26 April 2026

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