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Self-Hypnosis Helps Menopausal Women Manage Hot Flashes
14 Nov
Summary
- Self-hypnosis reduces hot flash frequency and intensity by over 50%
- Women can learn self-hypnosis at home, avoiding doctor visits
- Hypnosis provides benefits for managing anxiety, pain, and stress
According to a study published on November 11, 2025 in JAMA Network Open, self-hypnosis can provide substantial relief for menopausal women suffering from hot flashes. The research, led by Gary Elkins of Baylor University's Mind-Body Medicine Research Laboratory, found that women who listened to a daily 20-minute hypnosis audio session experienced a 53% reduction in hot flash frequency and intensity after just six weeks.
In contrast, a control group listening to a sham "hypnosis" audio file saw only a 41% decrease in hot flashes over the same period. By three months, the hypnosis group had a 61% reduction compared to 44% for the control group. Nearly 90% of the women receiving hypnosis reported feeling better, versus 64% in the control group.
Elkins noted that self-hypnosis is an accessible and cost-effective solution, as women can practice it at home without needing to travel for doctor visits. Beyond hot flashes, the technique can also be used to manage anxiety, cope with pain, and reduce stress.
