International Journal of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology · Nov 2026
Observational study of the association between body mass index, menopausal symptoms, and quality of life among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women
By Kaur I, Sharma S
Background: Menopause is associated with hormonal, metabolic, and physiological changes that may influence body composition, menopausal symptom severity, and quality of life. Increased body mass index (BMI) and abdominal adiposity may contribute to physical discomfort, psychological disturbances, and impaired daily functioning among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Aim: To evaluate the association between BMI, menopausal symptom severity, and quality of life among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women attending a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based observational cross-sectional study framework included 112 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women aged 40–65 years. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical parameters, BMI, waist circumference, and menopausal status were assessed. Menopausal symptoms were evaluated using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), while quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 28.0, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among 112 women, 52 (46.43%) were perimenopausal and 60 (53.57%) were postmenopausal. Obesity was observed in 42 (37.50%) participants. Mean BMI was significantly higher among postmenopausal women (25.82 ± 4.88 vs. 23.73 ± 4.43 kg/m2; p = 0.020). Obese women demonstrated significantly higher total MRS scores than normal-weight women (18.98 ± 3.50 vs. 9.25 ± 3.37; p < 0.001). Physical quality-of-life scores were significantly lower among obese women (62.71 ± 8.63 vs. 74.12 ± 6.97; p < 0.001). BMI showed a significant positive correlation with total MRS scores (r = 0.670) and a negative correlation with psychological quality-of-life scores (r = -0.435), with p < 0.001 for both. Conclusion: Higher BMI was associated with increased menopausal symptom severity and poorer quality-of-life scores. Comprehensive menopausal assessment, weight management, and lifestyle interventions may help improve women's overall well-being.