KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PERCEPTION REGARDING MENOPAUSE AMONG PREMENOPAUSAL WOMEN IN A RURAL COMMUNITY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

BACKGROUND: Menopause is a natural physiological transition in every woman’s life. However, a lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and strong socio-cultural taboos complicate women’s menopausal experience, particularly in rural India. The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding menopause among premenopausal women. METHODS: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted among 20 premenopausal women in a rural setting. Participants were assessed using a structured questionnaire collecting demographic data along with queries exploring their knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding menopause. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize findings. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 36.25 (SD 5.63) years. While 65% had heard about menopause, only 20% correctly attributed it to hormonal changes, and just 15% were aware of symptom management options. Misconceptions about menopause were prevalent, with 15% believing it could be caused by infection. A majority (75%) believed menopause would negatively affect their quality of life, and 60% obtained information from healthcare professionals. Importantly, 95% stated menopause remains a taboo topic in their community. About half (50%) felt unprepared for the menopausal transition, and only 40% felt somewhat comfortable discussing menopause with a doctor. CONCLUSION: Premenopausal women in this rural community demonstrated significant knowledge gaps and negative attitudes toward menopause, compounded by cultural taboos and limited preparedness. Most participants lacked awareness of the causes and management of menopause. Keywords: menopause, knowledge, attitude, perception, rural women, India.