Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH, cilt.37, sa.4, ss.683-694, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus)
ObjectiveMenopausal women often experience changes in sexual function, including reduced desire, arousal difficulties, and increased sexual distress, which can impact their overall well-being. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have emerged as a potential approach to enhancing sexual function and reducing distress, yet their effectiveness remains uncertain. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of MBIs on sexual function, desire, arousal, sexual distress, and satisfaction in menopausal women.MethodsWe searched Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to February 2025. Studies were included if they evaluated the effects of MBIs on sexual function outcomes in menopausal women. In total, seven RCTs, involving 609 participants from the United States, Iran, India, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong, met the inclusion criteria. Intervention durations ranged from 8 to 12 weeks, with various validated measures used to assess sexual function and related outcomes. Study quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklists.ResultsMindfulness demonstrated positive effects on sexual desire, arousal, and sexual distress in menopausal women. A significant reduction in sexual distress was consistently reported across studies. However, the effects on overall sexual function varied, with some studies showing improvements in satisfaction while others reported inconsistent findings. The heterogeneity in study design, intervention types, and outcome measures contributed to variations in reported effects.ConclusionsMindfulness appears to be beneficial in reducing sexual distress and improving aspects of sexual function in menopausal women. However, the variability in study outcomes highlights the need for further high-quality, standardized research to determine the long-term effectiveness and clinical applicability of these interventions. Given the increasing interest in nonpharmacological strategies for menopause-related health concerns, mindfulness may offer a promising complementary approach for sexual well-being in this population.