Yoga and Menopause

Yoga and Menopause refers to research on yoga interventions for menopausal symptoms.

Summary

Studies evaluate yoga’s effects on hot flashes, sleep disturbance, mood changes, and quality of life during the menopausal transition.

Key Findings

Meta-analyses report reductions in hot flash frequency and severity. Yoga improves sleep quality and reduces anxiety and depression during menopause. Benefits for sexual function and body image are reported in some studies. Gentle and restorative yoga are best tolerated.

Methodology

RCTs run 8–16 weeks with menopause-specific symptom scales (MENQOL), hot flash diaries, and mood measures. Controls include hormone therapy, exercise, and waitlist.

Limitations

Heterogeneity of menopausal symptoms complicates comparison. Blinding is difficult. Long-term outcomes are understudied.

Verification Notes

• Cramer et al. (2018) systematic review and NAMS guidelines reference yoga.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.