Complementary and Alternative Medicine Methods Used for Sleep Disturbance in Menopause

Abstract

Objective: One of the most common complaints observed during the menopausal period is sleep disorders, affecting 40%-60% women. In this study, we aimed to determine complementary and clternative medicine (CAM) for menopausal women experiencing sleep disturbances, and the prevalence and influencing factors of sleep disturbance. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, we included menopausal women experiencing sleeplessness [≥4 degree of discomfort according to the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)] (n=201). A questionnaire and the CAM Scale were used to collect data. The necessary institutional and ethical committee permissions were obtained. Results: The mean age of the menopausal women was 47.23±4.53 [minimum (min)- maximum (max), 30-60] years, and their mean VAS for insomnia was 5.20±1.12 (min-max, 4-9). The following methods were used by the women to overcome insomnia: herbal supplements (96.6%), dietary supplements (98.8%), religious practices (95.7%), and mind-body practices (76.9%). The most common methods were fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, honey, linden tea, rosehip, prayer, pray, and music. Approximately 70.5% women expressed that the method they used was effective. Conclusion: Almost all menopausal women used any method of CAM. Further studies on the effectiveness of these methods as well as the training to be provided and the information dissemination by healthcare professionals are recommended.