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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Jacquie Fraser, PhD, Department of Health Science, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 11935 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419-1997, 912-921-7315, fraserja@mail.armstrong.edu
Purpose: The purpose of this research was to explore issues related to menopause for lesbians. It was hypothesized that lesbians' experiences of perimenopause/menopause may be different because of their sexual orientation.
Methodology: An anonymous, international, snowball Internet survey was undertaken to explore issues related to menopause. Demographic, quantitative and qualitative questions were asked. Demographic questions included age, education, country of residence, race/ethnicity, relationship status and self-described socio-economic status. Quantitative questions dealt with perimenopausal/menopausal symptoms, symptom- relief measures, information regarding family practice physicians and gynecologists including frequency of visits and gender of physician. Qualitative questions explored the relationship of ‘coming out' and the gender of the physician, reasons for not ‘coming out', effects of perimenopause/menopause on the woman physically, mentally and emotionally, and impact on the relationship of perimenopause/menopause especially if the partner was also experiencing symptoms.
Appropriate statistical analysis was used for quantitative questions. Qualitative data were analyzed using N5 software. Triangulation of data methodology aided in analysis.
Results: Obviously lesbians experienced many of the same perimenopausal/menopausal symptoms as that experienced by heterosexual women. However, barriers to treatment were identified by some women in their reluctance to see a physician because of potential or experienced difficulties with homophobia. Additionally, women identified their thoughts and feelings about perimenopause/menopause. Interesting relationship issues were explored especially when both partners were simultaneously experiencing symptoms.
Discussion: Exploring and reporting on the perceptions of an under-served population regarding the critical issue of menopause and using these voices to make needed changes will facilitate this experience for lesbians.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to
Keywords: Lesbian Health, Menopause
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.