Body Management among Women with Early Menopause: Emphasizing Lifestyle Modification in Tehran

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Premature menopause, as a multidimensional biological, psychological, and social phenomenon, significantly affects women’s quality of life and requires approaches beyond purely medical interventions. This study aimed to explore and conceptualize body management strategies among women with early menopause, emphasizing lifestyle modification within the socio-cultural context of Tehran.

Methodology: This qualitative study employed a thematic analysis approach. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 40 women aged 30–40 years diagnosed with early menopause, selected via purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted through open, axial, and selective coding. Trustworthiness was ensured through member checking, peer review, and thick description. Theoretical frameworks including culture and personality, interpretivism, and dramaturgical perspectives were used to interpret the findings.

Findings: The analysis yielded four main themes: self-care and body care, lifestyle modification, socio-cultural approaches, and coping strategies. Findings indicate that body management is a dynamic and multidimensional process shaped by the interaction between social structures, cultural values, and everyday lived experiences, with lifestyle modification playing a significant role in improving physical and psychological outcomes.

Conclusion: Effective management of early menopause requires a shift from purely biological models toward an integrated framework that incorporates socio-cultural contexts, emphasizing women’s empowerment in self-care and culturally appropriate lifestyle interventions.