Wait one hot minute: what exactly is cognitive behavioral therapy for menopause?

We briefly review the literature on cognitive behavioral therapy for menopause, characterizing these interventions within their proper social cognitive context, and situating them within the broader research literature on cognitive behavioral therapy approaches. Furthermore, we highlight critical knowledge gaps and underscore the need for targeted next steps in research.

Unlike menopause hormone therapy, traditional cognitive behavioral therapy for menopause protocols are not necessarily designed to reduce the frequency or severity of vasomotor symptoms (e.g. hot flashes/night sweats). They do, however, reduce the functional impact of (i.e. hot flash-related interference) and psychological distress associated with (i.e. hot flash-related distress) vasomotor symptoms. Generalization effects, including concomitant improvements in mood, sleep, and overall quality of life, are common. The paucity of studies that examine the efficacy and effectiveness of these interventions for women with mental health conditions, however, has left a critical knowledge gap that warrants attention.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for menopause is an evidence-based treatment for the reduction of psychological symptoms associated with vasomotor symptoms. This treatment should not be misconstrued as the nonpharmacologic equivalent of menopause hormone therapy, and further research is needed to determine how and when this treatment is helpful to women with mental health conditions.