Experiencing menopause in the vital cycle: perception of women users of a basic unity of health

DOI: 10.15343/0104-7809.200832.4.10

Abstract

Climactery is the phase of women’s life that marks the end of reproductive life and the beginning of senility, and it is characterized
by important events such as the last menstruation and menopause. Climacteric syndrome, or menopausal disease, or menopausal
syndrome is a set of symptoms and signals that appear in climactery, affecting women’s well-being. To understand the meaning and
the importance of cultural values in the life of women, as well as to know to what degree the latter may come to determine a behavior
harmful to health is vital for professionals who intends to assist the necessities of woman in their context. This study aimed to know
the meaning/perception of women who live deeply in their vital cycle the phase of climactery/menopause, considering the signals and
symptoms that affect their daily life (Kupperman Index). 10 women had participated of this research that were cared by UBSF Costa Melo,
located in the East Zone of the city of São Paulo, that had answered two questions on the meaning of climactery and the perception on
this period of women’s life. Results show the necessity of approaching women in all their aspects, observing them as a whole and not
only consider complaints, but also guide them and supply information to help them in the search for a better quality of life.