Women’s experiences of physical, psychological, and social dimensions of the climacteric: a qualitative study in Spain

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore women's experiences during the climacteric, focusing on physical and psychological symptoms, coping strategies, and the role of sociocultural and contextual factors in shaping their lived experience. METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study explored the experiences of 18 women in premenopause, menopause, or postmenopause in Spain, recruited through purposive sampling. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti software, with credibility ensured through triangulation and member checking. RESULTS: Three themes emerged: (1) facing the climacteric: body and emotions in transition, encompassing vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, musculoskeletal pain, vaginal dryness, loss of libido, and psychological changes such as anxiety, sadness, and irritability; (2) coping and resilience during the climacteric stage, reflecting the use of personal strategies (exercise, diet changes, relaxation techniques) and social support, alongside dissatisfaction with limited and superficial health care responses; and (3) sociocultural perception of the climacteric, including stigma, lack of visibility, and insufficient understanding from family and workplace contexts. CONCLUSIONS: The climacteric is a multifaceted transition that impacts physical, emotional, social, sexual, and cultural well-being. Participants developed various coping strategies; however, they frequently described inadequate health care support and persistent social stigma, which contributed to isolation and invisibility. These findings underscore the need for gender-sensitive, empathetic health care, improved public education, and policies that normalize and support this natural life stage.