Masters Of Arts In Counseling Psychology

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Browsing Masters Of Arts In Counseling Psychology by Author "Gunyanyi, Janet Ogada"

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    Experiences of Menopause on Sexual Intimacy and Coping Strategies Used Among Karen Married Women
    (Tangaza University College, 2016-05) Gunyanyi, Janet Ogada
    Menopause is a natural occurrence that every woman experiences when the finite numbers of ovarian follicles are diminished as a result of reduced levels of reproductive hormones. The reduction in reproductive hormones may be mild in some women and present with no challenges, while in others it may be severe and present with sexual difficulties which may warrant coping strategies in order to alleviate the difficulties. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of menopause on women’s sexual intimacy and coping strategies used by Karen married women. Exploratory qualitative research design was used. Exploratory design is used when little is known about a phenomenon. The total number of participants who took part in the study was 12 women, aged 45 to 65 years. The objectives of the study were: to explore the experiences of married women during menopause; particularly on their experiences of sexual intimacy; and to determine coping strategies women use in managing their experiences of menopause. Data was collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews which were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to analyze data. The results of the study showed that a majority of the women experienced hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, menstrual changes, irritability and mood swings. The findings also indicated that experiences of menopause impacted on the sexual satisfaction of the women, with a majority reporting lack of sexual desire, reduced sexual desire, lack of sexual interest, lack of sexual arousal and reduced sexual arousal, with a minority reporting having no sexual difficulties. A few of the women reported having spousal relationship difficulties due to lack of sexual interest. The results also indicated that the women used exercise therapy, conventional treatment, change of diet, change of dressing, social support, humour, spiritual intervention and doing nothing to manage their experiences. The findings of this study if published will enhance knowledge on experiences of menopause and its influence on sexual intimacy, particularly among Kenyan women. It is hoped that these findings will add to building up a body of knowledge regarding women’s experiences of menopause including possible ways of handling its inception and sustainability throughout life. In this way, this study has been informative to both women as a whole, for counselors, and medical practitioners who may work with women in solving issues related to menopause.