Well, I think it is safe to say, "most women don't want one!"
I blogged about hot flashes in general earlier this year http://drwinsett.blogspot.com/2012/05/so-you-dont-want-hot-flash.html and now let's look at one study in particular.
Although, generally hot flashes are reduced in those who regularly exercise, there are some fine points illustrated by a recent study from Penn State http://live.psu.edu/story/60192 and published this month in Menopause.
What is unique about this study is that the researchers measured not just subjectively reported hot flashes but measured skin conductance, which changes with moisture, to get an objective number of hot flashes as well. You can read the particulars in the link, but the important point is that on average the women who walked on the treadmill 30 minutes had FEWER hot flashes objectively and subjectively in the next 24 hours!
The greatest reduction in vasomotor symptoms (by both measures) was among the more fit and the leaner. Those overweight and obese or those with a lower level of fitness noticed a smaller reduction in symptoms.
The physiologic benefits of exercise seem clear. But to examine the needs of the menopausal woman further; EXERCISE seems the perfect prescription for decreasing hot flashes, reducing the risk for diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis and reducing the number of breast cancers. Check out http://drwinsett.blogspot.com/2012/06/maybe-youve-heard-exercise-reduces.html again.
Together we can prevent 75,000 breast cancer cases each year!
This content is information and not personal medical advice.
Great post Dr. I do agree that those women who are having menopause and hot flashes should control their diet and take regular exercise.
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