A pilot investigation of guided self-hypnosis in the treatment of hot flashes among postmenopausal women.

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that a hypnotic intervention can reduce hot flashes, a significant problem for some women. Based on the authors' previous research, the present study was developed to evaluate the feasibility of a guided self-hypnosis intervention for hot flashes. Thirteen postmenopausal women received 5 sessions of guided self-hypnosis in which all hypnotic inductions were recordings. Guidance regarding symptom monitoring, individualization of mental imagery, and practice of self-hypnosis were provided. Hot flashes were determined through diaries. Results indicated average frequency of hot flashes decreased by 72% (p < .001) and hot-flash scores decreased by 76% (p < .001) on average. Guided self-hypnosis reduced perceived hot flashes in the pilot study with postmenopausal women supporting the possible feasibility and potential benefit of the intervention.

• Authors: Gary Elkins, Aimee Johnson, William Fisher, Jim Sliwinski, Timothy Keith
• Journal: The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis (Int J Clin Exp Hypn) Vol. 61 Issue 3 Pg. 342-50 ( 2013) ISSN: 1744-5183 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 23679116 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural)

Topics

• Female
• Hot Flashes (psychology, therapy)
• Humans
• Hypnosis (methods)
• Middle Aged
• Pilot Projects
• Self Care (methods, psychology)