Date
5-22-2024
Department
School of Behavioral Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision (PhD)
Chair
Deborah Braboy
Keywords
perimenopause, menopausal transition, women’s mental health in midlife, menopause awareness, end stigma of menopause
Disciplines
Counseling
Recommended Citation
Cobarruvias, Sheri Collinsworth, "The Lived Experiences of Perimenopausal Christian Women: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5685.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5685
Abstract
Perimenopause (PM) is a natural physiological process indicating the start of the non-reproductive phase of a woman’s life, which is a significant life event and a global health issue that affects millions of women worldwide. PM produces the most physiological changes in a woman’s body than the other phases of menopause. This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of PM Christian women from a bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective through the lens of feminist theory. Data were gathered through virtual semistructured personal interviews with a sample of 10 participants focused on their physical, biological, psychological, emotional, mental, cognitive, social, relational, and religious/spiritual experiences during PM, with self-identity, coping strategies, and protective factors taken into consideration. Findings underscored participants’ bio-psycho-social-spiritual functioning, challenges to self-identity, self-isolation, the impact of limited knowledge about PM and the need for PM education and support, the benefits of communication to destigmatize PM, and the influence of coping skills and protective factors. Recommendations were made for PM Christian women, their personal support systems, community care organizations, medical and mental health professionals, and counselor educators. With greater communication, knowledge, professional and social support, increased menopause education for medical and mental health professionals, and understanding the needs of PM Christian women, the barriers to effective treatment along with the stigma of PM can begin to be addressed. This study bridges a gap in the literature concerning PM in that Christian women’s voices are heard and their experiences shared. Future research is indicated for more inclusive and relevant treatment.
