Tales from the photovoice clinic: Menopause experiences of Black and Chinese women in the United Kingdom.

Abstract

BackgroundMenopause is one of many critical life course points that may require intervention in relation to lifestyle changes, health and wellbeing. It is therefore important that menopausal women are supported especially considering possible health inequalities and inclusion issues. While there is increasing recognition for such support, little is known about the experiences of ethnic minority women living in the United Kingdom, who are thought to be less engaged and less likely to seek support, but those who try to seek support experience dissatisfaction.MethodsThis study explored menopause experiences of Black and Chinese heritage women aged over 40, living in the Northwest, England. Photovoice methodology was utilised including a four-phase process: introductory meeting with participants, taking of photos, selection of photos and discussions about the photos. Ten women participated and provided photos that conveyed their experiences with menopause. Photographs and transcripts from discussions were then analysed thematically.ResultsNine overarching themes were identified across the data: Menopause and management of symptoms including self-care, diet management, exercise, community and menopause and the life course including religion and beliefs, work, family and ageing. These themes captured the challenges and expectation of interacting with healthcare providers, alternative methods of managing menopause, significance of community and focus on the life course.