Data regarding the use of exercise to alleviate menopausal symptoms in midlife women have been somewhat mixed.  Although helpful in some women, moderate- to vigorous-intensity exercise may increase the risk of menopausal hot flashes.  A recent study suggests that light-intensity exercise, such as stretching may be helpful for menopausal symptoms.  

Forty Japanese women were included in the study and were randomized to 10 minutes of a stretching exercise before bed or treatment as usual.  The women who did the stretching exercises noted improved mood and decreased vasomotor symptoms as compared to the control group.

Ruta Nonacs, MD PhD

Read More: Stretching may ease women’s depression and menopause symptoms (Reuters)

Effects of stretching on menopausal and depressive symptoms in middle-aged women: a randomized controlled trial.

Kai Y, Nagamatsu T, Kitabatake Y, Sensui H.

Menopause. 2016 Aug;23(8):827-32.