QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN IN BAGHDAD/ ALKARKH

Background: The quality of life (QoL) among postmenopausal women can be significantly affected by menopausal symptoms and various sociodemographic factors. Understanding these associations is critical to guide clinical and public health interventions in family medicine. Aim: This study aimed to assess the impact of menopause on the quality of life among postmenopausal women in Baghdad. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 postmenopausal women selected using a convenience sampling method. Data collection tools included a structured questionnaire, the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), and QoL perception items. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations between symptom severity, quality of life, awareness, and healthcare consultation. Results: The mean age of participants was 56 years, and 98% did not use hormone replacement therapy. Moderate to severe somatic symptoms, particularly joint and muscular pain (61%), hot flashes (51%), and sleep disorders (63.7%) were prevalent. Psychological symptoms such as depressive mood and irritability were also common, while (76%) experienced severe urogenital symptoms. A majority (58%) reported a good overall QoL, and (87%) had never consulted a healthcare professional about menopause. There was a statistically significant association between the severity of menopausal symptoms and their interference with daily life (P=0.001), but no significant association with quality of life perception, awareness level, or specialist consultation (P>0.05). Conclusions: Most postmenopausal women experienced moderate to severe symptoms, which significantly disrupted their daily activities but were not proportionally reflected in perceived quality of life or healthcare utilization. Greater awareness, early symptom management, and accessible family medicine services are essential to improve QoL outcomes.