A study to assess the effectiveness of mind body therapies on selected premenopausal symptoms among middle aged women of selected urban areas: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: Premenopausal symptoms, experienced by middle-aged women transitioning toward menopause, often include physical, emotional, and psychological alterations such anxiety, mood swings, sleep issues, and hot flashes. Since these symptoms significantly lower quality of life, their management becomes a public health issue of great importance. Though hormone therapy is often used to alleviate these symptoms, their possible side effects and contraindications have driven research into other approaches. Among mind-body therapies that have gained popularity as non-pharmacological treatments include yoga, meditation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). These therapies try to reinforce the link between mental and physical health and reduce symptoms by lowering stress, enhancing emotional control, and motivating relaxation.

Aims of the Study: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of mind body therapies on selected premenopausal symptoms among middle aged women of selected urban areas. Methodology: For this study, the researcher adopted a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental research design, conducted in selected urban areas. The target population was middle-aged women, and the accessible population included those present at the time of data collection. A total of 40 women aged 40 years and above were selected using non-probability purposive sampling in both experimental n=20 and control n=20 group each. The research tool was divided into sections: Section I collected baseline information such as age, marital status, education, employment, menstrual and obstetrical history, and contraceptive use. Section II was structured with modified five-point Likert rating scales to assess different aspects of premenopausal symptoms. Subsections covered prevalence of symptoms (II A), mental and emotional changes (II B), urinary changes (II C and II F), menstrual irregularities (II D), and vasomotor problems (II E). The tool demonstrated strong validity with a content validity index of 0.86, and high reliability with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.97438. A pilot study confirmed the feasibility of conducting the research.

Results: The study screening middle-aged women for premenopausal symptoms showed that the majority of participants (61%) experienced mild symptoms, 32% had moderate, and 7% reported severe symptoms, with a mean score of 12.77 (SD = 6.77), indicating generally manageable discomforts. In the experimental group, most women were aged 40–45 years (70%), married (75%), moderately educated, and primarily homemakers (60%). Menstrual characteristics varied, with 55% reporting irregular cycles and normal blood flow in 55% of participants. Most had two children (40%) and used temporary contraceptive methods (60%). In the control group, most participants were also aged 40–45 years (65%), married (65%), and moderately educated, with 60% self-employed. The majority reported regular menstrual cycles (75%) and scanty blood flow (60%), with one child in 35% and permanent contraceptive use in 75%. Overall, participants in both groups were predominantly married, middle-aged, moderately educated women with diverse menstrual and reproductive profiles.

Conclusion: The study found that most middle-aged women experienced mild premenopausal symptoms, with fewer reporting moderate to severe symptoms. Participants were predominantly married, aged 40–45 years, and moderately educated, with varied menstrual patterns and contraceptive use. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, such as mind-body therapies, to help women manage premenopausal changes and enhance overall well-being.