By Norma S. Suerte, Annalie D. Gilongos, Lena O. Giron, and Ma Lourdes N. Sampiano
ABSTRACT
Menopause constitutes a major health problem for some women because of the changes in the body and hormonal imbalance, they will face plenty of discomforts, changing moods, and abnormal relationships with their family if misunderstood. This study aimed to determine the lived experience of nurse educators who were experiencing menopause. This study employed a descriptive phenomenological design. The data were gathered using an in-depth interview face to face and analyzed using Hycner’s method. This involved five menopausal nurse educators who were purposely chosen, Based on their experiences shared by the participants, the lived experiences of the menopause nurse were embodied in the themes. The findings revealed four themes and twelve subthemes. The themes were: Enervating Physical Effects of Menopause, Unpredicted Emotional symptoms, Role Expectations amidst menopause and Evolving Coping Strategies in the Change of life. The subthemes that emerged were: Feeling of hair standing, Palpitations, No strength and over fatigability, Hot flashes, Easily gets irritated with small things and issues, Feelings of inadequacy and insecurities, Sensitivity (Cries for no reason, Apprehensions, Domestic obligations and responsibilities in the house as mother, Expectations of the husband to care during menopause, Sexual obligations with the husband, Expecting to be understood by family members, friends or workmates, Diversion of attention to other situations to get rid of menopause symptoms, Family support, Seeking comfort to alleviate stress and ill feelings of menopause and Self-reliance to survive.