Speakers - 2026

Title: Examining the attitudes of reproductive-aged women and their spouses toward menopause

Abstract

Cultural and ethnic characteristics of societies are among the significant factors influencing the attitudes of women and their spouses toward menopause. Whether menopause is perceived as a natural phase of life or a disease plays a critical role in shaping these attitudes. This cross-sectional and analytical study aimed to determine the attitudes of married women of reproductive-age and their husbands towards menopause. The sample consisted of 316 reproductive-aged married women and their spouses who visited the gynecology and obstetrics outpatient clinic of a university hospital between January and June 2024, met the inclusion criteria, and voluntarily agreed to participate. Data were collected using the Participant Information Form developed by the researchers and the “Attitude Towards Menopause Scale.” The mean age of the women was 37.92±7.26 years, while that of the men was 40.98±8.63 years. While 72.5% of the women reported having received information about menopause, only 38.6% of the men stated the same. The mean total score of women on the Attitude Towards Menopause Scale was found to be 40.12±10.04. Statistically significant differences were observed between women and men regarding their views on menopause-related statements such as “Menopause is a disease,” “Menopause is beneficial,” and “Sexuality decreases during menopause” (p<0.05). This study reveals gender-based differences in knowledge, perception, and attitudes regarding menopause. While women possessed more information about menopause, men exhibited more knowledge gaps and prejudiced evaluations. These findings underscore the importance of educational programs that include men and are based on a gender-sensitive approach. Implementing such education efforts at the family and community levels is crucial for fostering healthier and more supportive attitudes toward menopause.

What will the audience take away from your presentation?  

• Gain a clear understanding of how women’s attitudes toward menopause during the reproductive period are shaped by education level, health literacy, psychological well-being, mode of delivery, and individual beliefs, enabling more individualized approaches in research, education, and clinical practice.
• Recognize the critical role of health literacy and psychological well-being in shaping menopause-related attitudes, and learn how these factors can be addressed through targeted educational and support programs.
• Identify gender-based differences in knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward menopause, particularly the information gaps and biased evaluations observed among men.
• Apply a gender-sensitive, family- and community-based perspective when designing menopause education and support interventions, ensuring the inclusion of men to strengthen family support and societal attitudes.
• Translate research findings into practical educational strategies, particularly for nurses and other health professionals, who can take on an active educational and guiding role to promote positive, informed, and supportive attitudes toward menopause.