Exploring the Authentic Illness Experience and Health Management Needs of Patients with Moderate to Severe Menopausal Syndrome through the Lens of Social-Ecological Systems Theory: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background Patients with moderate to severe menopausal syndrome often face significant physical and mental health challenges, yet their experiences are frequently overlooked in China. This study aims to explore the illness experiences and health management needs of these patients, focusing on their feelings, coping strategies, and demands for health services to address both physical and psychological symptoms, thereby promoting reforms in management programs. Methods A phenomenological approach was employed, with an interview guide developed based on socio-ecological systems theory. Twelve patients with moderate to severe menopausal syndrome were selected through purposive sampling for semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's seven-step method. Results Twelve women participated this research. Three primary themes and ten subthemes were emerged: (1) micro- cognitive limitations and reduced coping capacity (aging and confusion, self-regulation and health monitoring, delayed treatment, and divergent expectations); (2) meso- family silence and disappearing workplace care (ambiguous information, feeling of pain, isolation and helplessness, and workplace neglect and gossip); and (3) macro- misaligned healthcare (fleeting communication, absence of health promotion role, and enhancing management plan specificity and systemization). Conclusion The study found that patients with moderate to severe menopausal syndrome possess strong self-management awareness; however, their coping abilities require enhancement, particularly for atypical symptoms such as palpitations and joint pain. Developing effective and targeted health management plans relies on collaboration among families, communities, media platforms, medical institutions, and healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support for patients.