Psychological Interventions Might Alleviate Some Menopausal Symptoms

Many women prefer not to use hormones (or cannot, for medical reasons such as breast cancer) to alleviate menopausal symptoms. In this meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (combined sample, 1016 women), researchers examined the effectiveness of psychological interventions — mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral, and behavior-based therapies — for alleviating such symptoms. Trial participants (including breast cancer survivors) used standardized scales to report hot-flash frequency, associated bother, general menopausal symptoms, and sexual activity. Control groups primarily consisted of women on waiting lists to receive these interventions. No studies continued beyond 1 year.

All psychological therapies showed modest, statistic…