Menopause, a significant biological event, has historically been medicalized and often associated with negative societal perceptions. The research study aimed to explore the lived experiences and understanding of menopause among women through a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, investigating how women learn about menopause and the influences that shape their learning. I was particularly interested in how and whether women’s narratives align with or challenge socially constructed perceptions of menopause.

The research was guided by an interpretive/social constructivist theoretical framework and critical feminism, which recognizes women’s narratives and the body as sources of knowledge. The study, conducted in Canada, involved seven Canadian women aged 53 to 74. Purposive sampling was used to select information-rich cases. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, and narrative analysis techniques were employed to identify themes and patterns in the participants’ stories.

The study’s findings reveal that women’s perspectives on menopause are often shaped by patriarchal influences and societal perceptions of women. This can lead to a devaluation of their experiences. Overall, the women’s narratives shed light on the transformational experiences of menopause, thereby emphasizing the impact of societal conceptions, which result in stigmatization and a lack of open dialogue about this life stage.

This research highlights the importance of women’s narratives in understanding their lived experiences, promoting positive conceptualizations of menopause and advancing a women-centred approach to supporting health and well-being. By acknowledging women’s stories and physicality as valuable sources of knowledge, we can gain a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of their unique needs.

Women, Menopause and Menopause Learning