The Perimenopausal Phenomenon in Catholic Nuns

This study was designed to explore the perimenopausal phenomenon in Catholic nuns. A general interview guide was used to obtain the postmenopausal reflections of the perimenopausal experience. The study revealed that except for a few individual variations, the perimenopausal symptoms of Catholic nuns are similar to those reported by women in other studies. The significance of these symptoms and the perimenopausal experience were expressed in terms of the life cycle and the cessation of menstruation. The Catholic nuns' cultural values and beliefs and technological, religious/ philosophical, kinship/social, political/legal, educational, and economic factors were perceived to influence their perimenopausal perceptions, experiences, and health care. They perceived that they did not have concerns related to sexual activity, childbearing, childrearing, and a spouse's response. They also perceived that they had better access to health care and information related to perimenopause. Perimenopausal perceptions and experiences may vary across cultures, but also among subgroups and individuals within a culture.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MS)

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis - University Access Only

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Graduate Nursing

Year

1994

Author dc:creator

• Kolecka, Debra A.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Dianna Sorenson

• menopause
• health and hygiene of nuns
• nun psychology
• Nursing

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright © 1994 Debra Kolecka. All rights reserved

Language dc:language

en

Repository record dc:identifier

https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd/754

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:openprairie.sdstate.edu:etd-1754