The Measure of Perimenopausal Health Self-efficacy of Middle East women

Background: The perimenopausal period means the transition from reproductive to non-reproductive life. This period represents a critical life stage encompassing a range of physiological and psychosocial changes, these changes are not life-threatening, but may reduce quality of life considerably.Objective: To evaluate the self-efficacy of Middle Eastern women in promoting health during perimenopausal period.Methods: A descriptive and analytic (cross sectional) study, conducted at six Arabic countries includes (Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Yamane, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia) These countries were chosen by lottery, Non probability (purposive sample) consist of (200) women, the questionnaire was designed in a Google Form, and the questionnaire link was sent to women, which were selected according to inclusion criteria that are women in perimenopausal period, and they are attended primary healthcare centers for any consultation.Results: the results of the study shows that 18.5% of perimenopausal women have a high level of self-efficacy , while 73.5% of them shows moderate level (Mean ± SD= 25.61 ± 3.468) and 8% have a low level during perimenopausal period . There is high significant difference in self-efficacy level with regard to women’s marital status at p-value= .001 for separated women (M±SD= 30.00±.000).The average age of women is 52±7 years, 49% of them seen within age group of 45 – 55 years old. 81.5% of women are married. The nationality of women distributed from various countries: Iraq (32%), Lebanon (10.5%), Jordan (12%), Yemen (11.5%), Egypt (27%), and Saudi Arabia (7%).Conclusions: Empowering and enhancing self-efficacy can help perimenopauseal women in the Middle East live long and healthy lives. Assessment and evaluation of Middle East women’s needs by health care provider and encouraging them to focus on healthy nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and establishing supportive social relationships can enable them to adapt to the demands of menopause.