From Menarche to Menopause: Understanding Multigenerational Reproductive Health Milestones

Abstract

Our study aims at understanding multigenerational communication among grandmothers, mothers, and daughters experiencing reproductive health transitions from menarche to menopause. Thirty women, 10 triads of grandmothers, mothers, and daughters, participated in narrative interviews to recount their menarche and menopause experiences. Analysis was read using a multilayered approach to interpret discourse positioned from self, reflexive others, and those stories informed by societal meanings. Four dialectical themes informed by generational discursive shifts in talk included (1) covert versus overt talk, (2) recollection of versus indifference to menarche, (3) bound to versus freedom from menstruation, and (4) controlling versus managing bodily changes. The theoretical significance of this piece indicates a slight, transformative change in how messages about menarche and menstruation are communicated or passed down from one generation to the next.

Determinants of Quality of Life among Menopausal Market Women Traders in a South-Western Town, Nigeria

“…The above result is slightly different from the findings of other researchers who find that the average age at natural menopause as 51.4 years [17]. Whereas another study found that the age range was 45 to 55 years with the average age at 51 years [18].…”

Menopause and work: A narrative literature review about menopause, work and health

“…Menopause is more often viewed positively in cultures where ageing in general is valued [ 25 ]. Women’s interpretations of their symptoms depend on how ‘natural’ they are, or what their final period means to them [ 26, 27 ]. For some women, an end of physical fertility may be difficult, especially when fertility plays an important role in their identity as a woman.…”

“…However, cause and effect remain unclear. Menopause and midlife can be problematic for women, but they can also be a turning point, after which women experience more focus and room for careers and self-development [ 26 ]. Dennerstein et al showed that life events, daily activities, family life and job satisfaction all affect the mood of women during menopause [ 28 ].…”

La menstruación en la ficción infantil y juvenil: lo personal es político

“…La libertad va de la mano de una educación emocional que integre la realidad femenina, y esta debe tener referentes culturales que acompañen el proceso de empoderamiento desde la menarquía hasta la menopausia (Field-Springer et al, 2018). El placer va de la mano de la sexualidad, y esta, de los temas cercanos a la fertilidad y al conocimiento profundo del ciclo menstrual, que no ha de doler, no ha de producir asco, y mucho menos ser padecido en silencio.…”