biostudies-literatureGiggins OMResearch Ireland121https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC12918476biostudies-literatureUnknown26(1)<h4>Background</h4>Menopause is a significant transitional phase in a woman's life, often involving a complex journey of physiological and psychological changes that can span a decade or more. Despite impacting half the population, menopause remains under-researched and often overlooked in both the literature and public discourse. Understanding the lived experience of menopause is essential to providing more effective support and care during this pivotal life stage.<h4>Objectives</h4>This study sought to explore women's experiences of menopause within the Irish context.<h4>Design</h4>A qualitative exploratory design was used.<h4>Methods</h4>Six focus groups were conducted involving a total of 20 female participants, ranging in age from 44 to 61 years. The groups lasted between 90 and 108 mBMC women's healthA robber of joy or a natural transition? a qualitative exploration of women's menopause experiences in Ireland.PMC1291847622/PATH-S/10766Cullen Smith SGiggins OMDoyle JMcLysaght AfalseA robber of joy or a natural transition? a qualitative exploration of women's menopause experiences in Ireland.<h4>Background</h4>Menopause is a significant transitional phase in a woman's life, often involving a complex journey of physiological and psychological changes that can span a decade or more. Despite impacting half the population, menopause remains under-researched and often overlooked in both the literature and public discourse. Understanding the lived experience of menopause is essential to providing more effective support and care during this pivotal life stage.<h4>Objectives</h4>This study sought to explore women's experiences of menopause within the Irish context.<h4>Design</h4>A qualitative exploratory design was used.<h4>Methods</h4>Six focus groups were conducted involving a total of 20 female participants, ranging in age from 44 to 61 years. The groups lasted between 90 and 108 m2026-01-01T00:00:00Z2026 Feb2026-07-16T10:03:18.076Z2026-07-09T10:48:22.106ZS-EPMC129184764166410910.1186/s12905-025-04204-1