Positive Health Online

Abstract

YOUNUS and colleagues, London Regional Cancer Centre, Ontario, Canada, Jawaid.younus@lrcc.on.ca, write about the mind control of menopause.

Background

The objectives of this clinical trial were to assess the effect of hypnosis on hot flushes and overall quality of life; and also the effect of hypnosis on fatigue.

Methodology

14 women, 4 of them suffering from breast cancer, all with symptoms of hot flushes, were treated with 4 hour-long sessions of hypnosis at weekly intervals. The same therapist conducted all sessions. Patients recorded frequency, duration, and severity of hot flushes. The QLQ-C30 and Brief Fatigue Inventory were used to measure quality of life and fatigue.

Results

The frequency, duration and severity of hot flushes were all significantly reduced by hypnosis (p = 0.0001). Overall quality of life was also improved (p = 0.05). Patients slept better (p = 0.012) and felt less fatigued (p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Hypnosis appears to be a most promising intervention for dealing with hot flushes, with a potential for improving insomnia and general quality of life.

References

Younus J, Simpson I, Collins A, Wang X. Mind control of menopause. Women's Health Issues 13 (2): 74-78, Mar-Apr 2003.