Electroacupuncture for hot flashes in early menopause: A randomized sham-controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Acupuncture Research

Background:

• Electroacupuncture (EA) is explored for managing hot flashes (HFs) in postmenopausal women.
• Evidence on EA's effectiveness for early postmenopausal HFs is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of EA in alleviating hot flashes (HFs) during early postmenopause.
• To assess EA's impact on menopausal symptoms and quality of life.

Main Methods:

• A randomized sham-controlled trial involving 72 women with HFs.
• Intervention group received EA; control group received sham acupuncture over 6 weeks with 12-week follow-up.
• Primary outcome: HF score; Secondary outcomes: MRS, MENQOL, PSQI, TCMSSS, and hormone levels.

Main Results:

• Both EA and sham acupuncture reduced HF scores significantly.
• EA group showed greater improvements in MRS, MENQOL (vasomotor, psychosocial, physical), PSQI, and TCMSSS at 6 weeks.
• Improvements in MENQOL (vasomotor, psychosocial) and PSQI persisted at follow-up; no significant changes in sexual scores or hormone levels.

Conclusions:

• EA does not significantly improve hot flashes (HFs) in early postmenopausal patients.
• EA enhances sleep quality and reduces vasomotor, psychosocial, and physical menopausal symptoms.