Health-care-seeking Behavior of Postmenopausal Women in an Urban Slum of Srikakulam Town

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The majority of Indian women tend to ignore and neglect their menopausal symptoms, which can diminish in intensity over time, leading to a reduced health-related quality of life. We aimed to assess the health-care-seeking behavior of postmenopausal women in light of the increasing burden of menopausal symptoms. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out within urban neighborhoods, involving 384 postmenopausal women aged 45–60, to investigate the health-related issues they faced. The Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) was used to assess the symptoms experienced during the postmenopausal stage. In addition, a predesigned and pretested questionnaire was used to gather information on their health-care-seeking behavior. The participants underwent a comprehensive physical examination, including anthropometric measurements. To analyze the data, descriptive statistics were used. Results: The results showed that 34% of the 384 women were between the ages of 45 and 49 years. Based on the MRS assessment, it was found that around 70% of women experienced mild symptoms, whereas 24% had moderate symptoms, and a mere 2% reported severe symptoms. Regarding treatment, approximately 85% of women had sought medical intervention. However, satisfaction with the treatment was reported by only 71% of the participants. Among the women with modest symptoms, 70% received medical care, compared to 28% of the women with moderate symptoms. Women who were employed, widowed, three-generation family women, and Class IISES women made the most use of health-care facilities, with 90%, 89%, 88%, and 97%, respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of faint symptoms was significantly higher than that of moderate and severe symptoms. Although most women sought treatment, many were unsatisfied with it. Therefore, behavior modification communication is necessary among postmenopausal women who seek medical care. In addition, the National Health Mission should incorporate components addressing the specific health requirements of postmenopausal women.