Exploring weight management beliefs during the menopausal transition (ME‐WEL project): A qualitative comparative study based on Health Belief Model

Abstract Objectives While most women experience weight gain during the menopausal transition, a subset successfully maintains a healthy weight. This study explores the determinants influencing different weight experiences during the menopausal transition, using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Design Qualitative design. Methods Semi‐structured individual interviews with 62 Portuguese post‐menopausal women were performed. Among them, 31 women maintained a normal weight from pre‐menopause to post‐menopause, with a variation not exceeding 5% of pre‐menopausal weight, while another 31 women transitioned from normal weight in pre‐menopause to overweight or obesity in post‐menopause, with an increase above 7% of pre‐menopausal weight. Deductive‐dominant content analysis and multiple correspondence analysis were performed. Results Prominent differences exist between the Unhealthy Weight Gain Group (UWG‐G) and the Healthy Weight Maintenance Group (HWM‐G). The UWG‐G lacks perceived susceptibility in pre‐menopause and perceives obesity as stigmatizing. They prioritize immediate changes as benefits, while the HWM‐G focuses on self‐concept. Both groups face barriers like food cravings and weight loss challenges in middle‐aged. For cues to action, the UWG‐G emphasizes social support and self‐care resources, while the HWM‐G emphasizes age progression and healthy behaviour adherence. The HWM‐G presents higher self‐efficacy. Conclusion This study confirms the suitability of the HBM in understanding weight management beliefs among post‐menopausal women, highlighting differences between women who maintain a healthy weight and those who experience weight gain during this life phase. This facilitates identifying key determinants (perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action and self‐efficacy) crucial for future interventions in weight management.