Women’s views about physical activity as a treatment for vasomotor menopausal symptoms: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background Women commonly seek medical advice about menopausal symptoms. Although menopausal hormone therapy is the most effective treatment, many women prefer non-pharmacological treatments, such as physical activity. The effectiveness of physical activity has been inconclusive when assessed by randomised controlled trials, and it remains unclear how women feel about it as a possible treatment approach. The aim of the study was to explore symptomatic menopausal women’s views and experiences of physical activity as a treatment for vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms. Methods An in-depth qualitative study was embedded within a randomised controlled trial that assessed the effectiveness of physical activity as a treatment for vasomotor menopausal symptoms in previously inactive vasomotor symptomatic women. Participants were randomised to one of two physical activity interventions or a usual care group. Both physical activity interventions involved two one-to-one consultations, plus either supporting materials or access to physical activity support groups, over 6 months. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 purposively selected participants from all three trial groups after they had completed trial follow-up. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed by constant comparison. Results All participants talked positively about physical activity as a treatment for their menopausal symptoms, with most reporting participation had improved their hot flushes and night sweats. They reported that they had experienced improved sleep, physical health and psychological well-being. Those who received the physical activity plus social-support intervention reported their ability to cope with their menopausal symptoms had improved. Many participants commented that they would prefer doctors to discuss physical activity as a possible treatment for their hot flushes and night sweats, before offering medication. Conclusions Based on the views and experiences of the women who participated in this study, healthcare professionals should continue discussing physical activity as a potential first treatment option with menopausal women. Furthermore, healthcare professionals should ensure they prepare, support, and encourage these women both physically and emotionally. Trial registration ISRCTN ISRCTN06495625 Registered 10/11/2010

Body composition, physical activity, and menopause symptoms: how do they relate?

“…30 However, despite the lack of statistical significance, the follow-up qualitative evaluation described positive feelings toward physical activity participation to alleviate TMSs, reporting subjective feelings of improved sleep and psychological well-being. 33 These null findings align with previous observational studies citing no differences in vasomotor menopause symptoms based on physical activity levels. 19,34 Most notably, nearly all exercise modalities used for intervention studies consist of low-moderate intensity.…”

Prediction of climacteric syndrome development in perimenopausal women with hypothyroidism

“…Physical activity and maintenance of proper body weight are the main factors in prevention of the development of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and diabetes in perimenopausal women [ 13 , 14 ]. According to the Australian scientists Thomas et al ., dosing exercise during menopause improved sleep quality and reduced hot flashes – one of the most common menopausal symptoms in women [ 15 ]. Shepherd-Banigan et al .…”

Predicting the risk of severe menopausal syndrome in perimenopausal women with hypothyroidism

“…Активний спосіб життя та фізична активність під час менопаузного переходу, як і в інші періоди життя жінки, покращують загальну якість життя та допомогають знизити рівень стресу. За результатами дослідження австралійських вчених, виконання дозованих фізичних вправ у менопаузному періоді покращує якість сну та зменшує припливи -одні з найбільш поширених клімактеричних симптомів у жінок [8]. Американські вчені встановили, що регулярні фізичні навантаження, зокрема йога, їзда на велосипеді або плавання можуть бути корисною терапією для зменшення проявів вазомоторних симптомів у період менопаузи [9].…”