Perceived Experiences of Acupuncture Treatment for Hot Flashes in Women Receiving Postmenopausal Hemodialysis: A Qualitative Analysis of Two Cases

Abstract

Abstract Background: Acupuncture has been used to relieve hot flashes in postmenopausal women, but not in hemodialysis-dependent women. Objective: This study explored perceived experiences of hot flashes and their acupuncture treatment in two postmenopausal hemodialysis-dependent women. Design, Setting, and Patients: Two postmenopausal women undergoing regular hemodialysis received acupuncture treatment for their hot flashes. Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of postmenopausal hemodialysis-dependent women with regard to hot flashes and the acupuncture treatments that they received. Intervention: Two patients received twelve sessions of individualized manual acupuncture treatment for 4 consecutive weeks. Main Outcome Measure: A research investigator conducted a single-session interview to identify the 2 patients' perceived experiences of hot flashes and acupuncture treatments. Results: Hot flashes had a considerable impact on several aspects of the patients' q...