Bio-Sociocultural Aspects of Menopause

Abstract

The menopause transition is a bio-psycho-socio-cultural process. Attitudes and sociocultural perceptions provide the context within which women experience menopause. Psychological factors - including anxiety, stress, thoughts and beliefs and self-esteem - influence the experience of hot flushes. Cognitive behavioural model is described which is compatible with a bio-psycho-socio-cultural perspective. Relaxation and cognitive behavioural approaches appear to be acceptable to women, and there is some evidence for their efficacy.