Progressive Relaxation Exercise, Menopausal Symptoms and Working Performance

Effects of Progressive Relaxation Exercise on Menopausal Symptoms and Work Performance: A Randomized Control Study

Women typically enter menopause between the ages of 40 and 47, and they spend approximately one-third of their lives in this phase. During menopause, many experience hot flashes due to decreased estrogen levels, along with vasomotor changes such as altered heart rhythms and sleep disturbances. These issues may accompany or occur independently of hot flashes. Additionally, psychological changes can arise, including tension, sudden mood swings, anxiety, stress, and depression. Physiological concerns may include vaginal atrophy and stress incontinence.

Previous studies have shown that menopausal symptoms can significantly increase women's social appearance anxiety, depression, stress, and anxiety overall, negatively impacting their quality of life. Moreover, a limited number of recent studies have attempted to explore the relationship between the severity of menopausal symptoms in the workplace and factors such as job performance, career development decisions, and overall work participation.

This study aims to investigate the effects of progressive relaxation exercises on women's menopausal symptoms and their work performance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being a woman between the ages of 45-65
• Being able to read and understand Turkish
• Being at least a primary school graduate
• Not having menstruation for a year

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having a disability in maintaining communication (such as hearing and speaking)
• Having entered early menopause (no menstruation) through surgery or natural means,
• Being on hormone therapy
• Filling out forms incompletely