Midwives’ experiences of working with menopause counselling: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background

Studies have shown that women are asking for more knowledge and guidance about menopause. The professional competence of midwives encompasses menopause as a potential area of expertise. Midwives have good knowledge of women’s health and are used to providing health advice.

Aim

The aim was to examine midwives’ experiences of working with menopause counselling.

Methods

Data were collected by using semi-structured individual interviews with 14 midwives who had experience in conducting menopause counselling. The data analysis was carried out using Malterud systematic text condensation.

Findings

The data analysis yielded four themes: The midwife can fulfil a need for care; Menopause counselling, a midwifery task; Factors that facilitate; Promote equal menopause care. The midwives felt they were addressing a healthcare need that had previously been unmet. They thought midwives were well suited to perform this task, had good knowledge of women's health and were used to working from a holistic and salutogenic perspective. The midwives perceived certain conditions as essential, structured menopausal counselling, support in the organisation, education at advanced level and established cross-professional collaborations. They also thought an investment in menopause care is needed to promote equal care.

Conclusion

This work indicates that midwives with their skills and working methods are well suited to conduct menopausal counselling and thereby could satisfy a healthcare need. Resources needed are investments in menopausal counselling visits by midwives.