Menopause research in women with spinal cord injury: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

This article focuses on the current state of menopause research and the challenges and opportunities for understanding this normal biological passage in women with spinal cord injury (SCI). We present a model of menopause in the context of SCI as a foundation for expanding this line of research. Symptoms and health risks associated with menopause particularly relevant for women with SCI are briefly reviewed. Methodological challenges of menopause research and specific issues that are made even more challenging by SCI are discussed. Last, we offer recommendations for advancing research of menopause in women with SCI and disability in general. © 2009 Thomas Land Publishers, Inc.