The Meaning of Menopause among Ghanaian-Canadian Women

Abstract

In spite of its bio-universality, menopause presents a complex phenomenon
experienced differently by women from varied cultures. The meanings of
menopause and what it signifies for women vary considerably. They are
shaped by social attitudes about aging and women’s roles over the life
course. Utilizing in-depth interviews, this study examines the meanings and
experiences of menopause for ten Ghanaian-Canadian women living in Toronto. It explores how some aspects of Ghanaian culture have influenced the
women’s perceptions and interpretation of menopause. The study concludes that while Ghanaian women living in Canada have been surrounded
by a culture where menopause is medicalized, most do not view menopause
as a disease but rather as a normative life transition.