A NOVEL LIFESTYLE-BASED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INTERVENTION TO ALLEVIATE MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS AND ENHANCE QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG MIDLIFE WOMEN

Abstract

Introduction: Menopause is a significant physiological transition in a woman’s life that is commonly associated with vasomotor, psychological, physical, and social symptoms affecting overall quality of life. Midlife women frequently experience hot flashes, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, fatigue, mood instability, and musculoskeletal discomfort, which may negatively influence daily functioning and well-being. Increasing evidence highlights the importance of non-pharmacological and lifestyle-oriented interventions in managing menopausal symptoms. Physical activity promotion has emerged as a safe, cost-effective, and sustainable strategy for enhancing menopausal health outcomes. This study aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Sustainable Development Goal 3 and Sustainable Development Goal 5, by promoting healthy aging, women’s empowerment, and improved quality of life among midlife women.

Methods: A quantitative interventional research design was adopted among midlife women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Participants were selected using an appropriate sampling technique and underwent baseline assessment using standardized menopausal symptom and quality-of-life assessment tools. The novel lifestyle-based physical activity intervention included brisk walking exercises, deep breathing exercise and kegel exercise conducted over a specified duration. Post-intervention assessment was carried out using the same standardized tools to evaluate changes in menopausal symptoms and quality of life. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The intervention demonstrated a significant reduction in menopausal symptom severity, particularly in physical discomfort, vasomotor symptoms, psychological distress, and sleep-related disturbances. Participants showed notable improvement in physical functioning, emotional well-being, stress management, and overall quality of life following the intervention. Increased adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors and regular physical activity practices was also observed among the participants. The findings indicate that lifestyle-based physical activity interventions can positively influence menopausal health outcomes and support healthy aging among women.