A qualitative analysis of the psychological impacts of menopausal transition for neurodivergent and neurotypical women
Emily Johansson, Rachel C. HoggBackground
Despite approximately half of the global population experiencing this life transition, little research has considered the psychological impacts of perimenopause and menopause. Even less consideration has been given to the experiences of neurodivergent women and the complexities that may accompany hormonal transition periods for this cohort. Given the neurological and psychological complexities of perimenopause, menopause, and neurodivergence alike, research is needed to understand the perspectives and experiences of neurodivergent and neurotypical women, individually and in context to one another.
Objectives
The aim of the study was to explore how neurodivergent and neurotypical women navigate the psychological and cognitive changes associated with perimenopause and menopause, with attention to how experiences of hormonal change are constructed and understood.
Design
This research adopted a qualitative social constructionist methodology that prioritised understanding how women construct their experiences of perimenopause and menopause, alongside constructions of neurodivergence.
Methods
Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve female-identifying participants. Data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Results
Six themes were constructed including: (i) intersecting contexts and dual marginalities; (ii) evolving expressions of neurodivergence; (iii) unmasking and self-reclamation; (iv) physiological experiences of menopausal transition and positions on treatment; (v) positive experiences with healthcare professionals, and (vi) frustration over medical ambiguity.
Conclusion
Findings indicate that more education, greater emphasis on spousal support, earlier interventions, and a biopsychosocial approach to treatment and management is needed to encompass the complex needs of neurodivergent and neurotypical women alike during menopausal transitions. Further exploration is needed to understand the intersections between menopause and neurodivergence, as well as the process of identity disruption and reconstruction for women in menopausal transition.