The Effects of Yoga Participation on Symptoms Associated with Menopause: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

During midlife, it is expected that women will progress towards the biological state of menopause; the permanent condition of infertility due to alterations or diminution of reproductive hormones. Typically lasting 5-10 years, the menopausal transition is associated with symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, interrupted sleep, anxiety, forgetfulness, and inconsistent mood. As these symptoms often hinder a women\u27s successful functioning in everyday life, hormone therapy is commonly prescribed as a means for diminishing symptoms. However, many women are seeking alternative/complementary treatments that can assist in managing menopausal symptoms due to the detrimental health-risks associated with the use of conventional therapies. The purpose of this mixed methods study was (a) to determine the effects of participation in a ten-week yoga intervention on the physiological symptoms experienced by women during menopause; and (b) to determine to what extent a change in symptoms can be attributed to yoga, as opposed to any other form of physical activity. Findings support previous literature indicating there to be a direct relationship between yoga participation and a reduction in the severity and/or frequency of menopausal symptoms. Additional results support an indirect relationship between yoga participation and improved management of menopausal symptoms due to decreased levels of perceived stress