Beyond the hot flashes: Exploring the holistic approaches to menopause management – A review

Abstract

The menopause represents a natural phase in the female life cycle rather than a pathological condition. From an evolutionary perspective, this physiological transformation signifies a crucial reproductive shift occurring in mid-life. Defined as the point at which ovarian function terminates, menopause leads to the cessation of menstruation, decline in ovarian follicular activity, and notable reduction in levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones. This literature review aims to explore recent advancements in menopause research concerning pharmaceutical interventions, innovative treatments, as well as the nuances of hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) and complementary and alternative medicine approaches. It seeks to pinpoint gaps in current knowledge to guide future investigations, focusing on key themes such as Hormone Therapy, Hypnosis, Aromatherapy, Phytoestrogens, and Reflexology. The systematic review involved an exhaustive online search across various databases including PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science. The ultimate compilation comprises 34 scholarly articles, along with 21 supplementary articles pertaining to the subject matter. Various treatment modalities, including hormonal (MHT) and non-hormonal alternatives, are available for alleviating menopausal symptoms. The ongoing refinement of clinical knowledge will enhance the therapeutic efficacy and the judicious management of patient care. Additional research endeavors are warranted concerning menopause and its associated treatment modalities.