Function In Postmenopausal Women Research Articles

Combined effects of high-intensity focused electromagnetic therapy and pelvic floor exercises on pelvic floor muscles and sexual function in postmenopausal women. A randomized controlled trial.

This study aimed to explore the impact of high-intensity focused electromagnetic therapy (HIFEMT) on the pelvic floor muscles (PFM), sexual function, and quality of life (QoL) among postmenopausal women. Fifty postmenopausal women with PFM weakness and sexual dysfunction were randomly allocated into two equal groups. The HIFEMT group participated in the PFM training program in addition to HIFEMT, whereas the control group performed PFM training only. For 12 weeks, HIFEMT was scheduled two times a week, while PFM training was performed daily. At baseline and after 12 weeks, PFM strength and endurance were assessed using a perineometer and sexual function was examined using the female sexual function index (FSFI) and menopause-specific quality of life questionnaire (MENQOL). The HIFEMT and control groups showed significant increases in PFM strength and endurance and FSFI scores, and significant declines in MENQOL compared with baseline measures (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, the HIFEMT group showed substantial improvements in all measured variables after 12 weeks (P<0.05). Addition of HIFEMT to PFM training improved the PFM strength, endurance, sexual function, and QoL in postmenopausal women with PFM weakness and sexual dysfunction.

Role function in postmenopausal women during aromatase inhibitor therapy for breast cancer.

Few studies have examined aromatase inhibitor therapy relating to role function in breast cancer survivors of working age. Our study sought to identify how pre-therapy sociodemographic and health/treatment-related characteristics, as well as patient-reported symptoms measured every six-months, influence role function during 18months of AI therapy for early-stage breast cancer. We performed a secondary analysis of longitudinal study data using linear mixed-effects modeling to examine role physical (RP) and role emotional (RE) functioning measured with the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 v2. The sample of postmenopausal women (N = 351) consisted of three cohorts: chemotherapy followed by anastrozole (CFAI), anastrozole only (AI only), and non-cancer controls. Our choice of variables and interpretation of findings was theoretically based on the Cancer Survivorship and Work Model. Stepwise backward deletion determined which predictors to include in the final model, accounting for treatment group. Both treatment groups were associated with greater limitations in RP functioning than controls. CFAI had twice the impact on RP compared to AI only. While the RP model displayed significant predictors across sociodemographic, health/treatment, and symptom characteristics, only symptoms were associated with greater limitations in RE functioning. Findings were significant at p < .05. Transitioning from acute to extended survivorship is a critical juncture in which multiple factors place breast cancer survivors at risk of diminished role function. Early interventions to address role function limitations during systemic treatment may lead to better work outcomes and improve the quality of long-term survivorship.

The Mediating Role of Distress Tolerance in the Relationship between Anxiety and Depression and Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Descriptive Study

The Mediating Role of Distress Tolerance in the Relationship between Anxiety and Depression and Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Descriptive Study

Effects of royal jelly and its extracts on endometrial receptivity and MCF-7 cell growth in rats with thin endometrium

Royal jelly (RJ) is rich in various nutrients, including proteins and amino acids. RJ consumption improves sexual and urinary function in postmenopausal women, possibly owing to its hormone-like effects. Currently, hormone regulation and assisted reproductive technologies are widely used to treat thin endometria; however, high doses of these drugs can add to liver burden. In this study, RJ proteins and fatty acids were isolated, and their therapeutic effects on thin endometria were investigated in vivo and in vitro to verify their hormone-like regulatory effects. The results showed that RJ and its extracts could regulate endometrial receptivity-related factor expression levels in rats with a thin endometrium, accelerate MCF-7 cell apoptosis, and increase estrogen receptor expression in MCF-7 cells wherein. The estrogen-like effects of RJ and the fatty acids may be the main contributors. RJ may be a potential natural hormone replacement therapy.

Preworkout dietary nitrate magnifies training-induced benefits to physical function in late postmenopausal women: a randomized pilot study.

To inform end points for future work, we explored the utility of preworkout (i.e., an acute dose before training) beetroot juice (BRJ) combined with exercise (BRJ + EX) to augment indices of physical function in postmenopausal women compared with exercise only (EX). A two-arm pilot study was used to compare 24 postmenopausal women following an 8-wk, circuit-based exercise intervention. Participants were randomized to BRJ + EX (n = 12) or EX (n = 12). BRJ + EX participants consumed 140 mL of BRJ 120-180 min (only) before training for 7 wk, then discontinued during the final week to mitigate carryover effects. Physical function indices were 6-min walk test (6MWT), estimated V̇o2peak, heart rate recovery (HRR), and maximal knee extensor power (Pmax). A treadmill task was used to measure V̇o2 on-kinetics wherein mean response time (MRT) coincided with the duration to reach 63% of steady-state V̇o2. Results showed greater changes (Δ) among BRJ + EX participants for 6MWT distance (40 ± 23 m vs. 8 ± 25 m; P = 0.003, d = 1.35), ΔV̇o2peak (1.5 ± 0.9 mL·kg-1·min-1 vs. 0.3 ± 1.0 mL·kg-1·min-1; P = 0.008, d = 1.20), and ΔHRR (-10 ± 6 beats/min vs. -1 ± 9 beats/min; P = 0.017, d = 1.05). Large and medium effect sizes favoring BRJ + EX were detected for ΔPmax (P = 0.07, d = 0.83) and ΔMRT (P = 0.257, d = 0.50), respectively. In postmenopausal women, BRJ + EX appears to magnify some adaptive benefits to physical function including aerobic capacity and recovery beyond that of training without BRJ. Investigation into contributing mechanisms is needed.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Though exercise training represents the principal strategy to combat age-related decline, the attendant effects of menopause weaken aspects of exercise adaptation compared with premenopausal women and age-matched men. Here we provide important initial evidence that preworkout (i.e., an acute dose before training) beetroot juice coupled with an 8-wk, circuit-based exercise training intervention may uniquely benefit late postmenopausal women by enhancing indices of physical function including aerobic capacity and recovery.

Improved heart rate variability in postmenopausal women following short-term combined exercise training

Imbalances in cardiac autonomic nervous systems are associated with cardiovascular risk factors and poor cardiac outcomes. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a practical and reproducible measure of cardiac autonomic nervous system function. Exercise training promotes positive adjustments in HRV. However, previous studies have reported mixed results. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of short-term combined exercise training on heart rate variability in post-menopausal women. Thirty-four women aged 50-80 years, at least 12 months post-menopause, were divided into a control (CON) group and an exercise (EX) training group. The participants in the exercise group underwent a 2-week of combined exercise program consisting of aerobic, strength, flexibility, and balance exercises. HRV was recorded using an Actiheart device, before and after the final exercise intervention in a sitting position. The significant main effects of time and group were found in the parameter of SDNN (p time = 0.039; p group = 0.026). Post-hoc analysis showed a borderline increase in SDNN in the EX group (POST: 48.79 ± 17.88 VS 44.54 ± 17.39, p = 0.055). No significant change was observed in the CON group (POST: 35.55 ± 13.51 VS 33.17 ± 8.74, p = 0.288). Statistical analysis of other HRV components revealed no significant results (all P &gt; 0.05). In conclusion, a 2-week of combined exercise training program, including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises improves global cardiac autonomic function in post-menopausal women. Keywords: combined exercise training, heart rate variability, blood pressure, menopause, and women

Postmenopausal Cognitive Function and Steroid Hormone Levels

Introduction: Most studies on the impact of sex hormones on the postmenopausal brain have focused on the lack of estrogen, with conflicting evidence. The influence of androgens on cognitive function is not well understood. This study aimed to assess the association between steroid hormones and cognitive function in postmenopausal women.

Behavioral Therapy in Post Menopause Patients with Urine Incontinence Problems – Systematic Review

A journal search was carried out used the keywords "Postmenopausal women AND Cognitive Behavioral therapy AND urinary incontinence AND meta analysis" to collect relevant articles published in the last 10 years from five databases (ProQuest, PubMed, Science Direct, Ebsco and Google Scholar. Criteria inclusions were: nurses, patients, urinary incontinence, intervention, full text articles, studies that focused on nursing assessment, and written in English. Six journal articles were selected and analyzed using PICO. Results, Non-pharmacological therapy with a behavioral therapy approach with the application of MBSR (Mindfulness based stress reduction) and HEP (Health Enhancement program) as well as Yoga Therapy &amp; PFMT (Pelvic Floor Muscle Training) exercises combined with light physical exercise such as walking, cycling, swimming. for 30 minutes as well as diet modifications can help postmenopausal patients with urinary incontinence. Conclusion: The application of MBSR (Mindfulness based stress reduction) and HEP (Health Enhancement program) as well as Yoga Therapy &amp; PFMT (Pelvic Floor Muscle Training) exercises combined with light physical exercise such as walking, cycling, swimming for 30 minutes and diet modification can reduces the number of episodes of urine leakage and improves all types of urinary incontinence problems as well as quality of life and can be beneficial for sexual function in post menopausal women.

Effects of five types of exercise on vascular function in postmenopausal women: a network meta-analysis and systematic review of 32 randomized controlled trials.

As women age, especially after menopause, cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence rises, posing a significant global health concern. Regular exercise can mitigate CVD risks by improving blood pressure and lipid levels in postmenopausal women. Yet, the optimal exercise modality for enhancing vascular structure and function in this demographic remains uncertain. This study aims to compare five exercise forms to discern the most effective interventions for reducing cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women. The study searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, EBSCO, and Embase databases. It conducted a network meta-analysis (NMA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on five exercise interventions: continuous endurance training (CET), interval training (INT), resistance training (RT), aerobic combined with resistance training (CT), and hybrid-type training (HYB). Outcome measures included carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT), nitric oxide (NO), augmentation index (AIx), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery. Eligible studies were assessed for bias using the Cochrane tool. A frequentist random-effects NMA was employed to rank exercise effects, calculating standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The analysis of 32 studies (n = 1,427) indicates significant increases in FMD with CET, INT, RT, and HYB in postmenopausal women. Reductions in PWV were significant with CET, INT, RT, CT, and HYB. AIx decreased significantly with INT and HYB. CET, INT, and CT significantly increased NO levels. However, no significant reduction in IMT was observed. SUCRA probabilities show INT as most effective for increasing FMD, CT for reducing PWV, INT for decreasing AIx, CT for lowering IMT, and INT for increasing NO in postmenopausal women. The study demonstrates that CET, INT, RT, and HYB have a significant positive impact on FMD in postmenopausal women. Furthermore, all five forms of exercise significantly enhance PWV in this population. INT and HYB were found to have a significant positive effect on AIx in postmenopausal women, while CET, INT, and CT were found to significantly improve NO levels. For improving vascular function in postmenopausal women, it is recommended to prioritize INT and CT exercise modalities. On the other hand, as CET and RT were not ranked at the top of the Sucra value ranking in this study and were less effective than INT and CT as exercise interventions to improve vascular function in postmenopausal women, it is not recommended that CET and RT be considered the preferred exercise modality.

DNA Methylation of BDNF and RASA2 Genes Is Associated With Cognitive Function in Postmenopausal Women With Breast Cancer.

To determine associations among DNA methylation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and RAS p21 protein activator 2 (RASA2) genes with processing speed and perceived cognitive function. This was a cross-sectional, secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial, the Exercise Program in Cancer and Cognition Study. Data included M values for DNA methylation of the BDNF and RASA2 genes; processing speed, objectively measured using the Grooved Pegboard and Digit Vigilance Test scores; and perceived cognitive function, self-reported using the Patient Assessment of Own Functioning Inventory. Regression analysis was conducted. Greater methylation of cg21291635 of the BDNF gene (p = 0.01) and cg20247102 of the RASA2 gene (p = 0.013) were associated with poorer processing speed, whereas greater methylation of cg20108357 of the BDNF gene (p < 0.001) and cg00567892 of the RASA2 gene (p = 0.019) were associated with better perceived cognitive function. Gene methylation variations were demonstrated, suggesting the genes' potential roles and two possible distinct mechanisms of cognitive function in cancer.&nbsp.

Understanding the Benefits of CO2 Laser Treatment for Vulvovaginal Atrophy.

Background and Objectives: Postmenopausal vaginal discomfort is often attributed to vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). Women with VVA experience symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, burning, irritation, and dyspareunia. Materials and Methods: This pilot study was conducted to assess the effects of a micro-ablative fractional CO2 laser on the clinical symptoms of VVA, as well as concordant sexual function. The severity of VVA symptoms was evaluated by a visual analogue scale (VAS), while the condition of the vaginal mucosa was evaluated using the Vaginal Health Index Score (VHSI). Sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) Questionnaire. Results: Our cohort included 84 sexually active postmenopausal women with bothersome VVA, leading to sexual health complaints. The mean age of the participants in our study was 55.2 ± 5.4 years, with an average postmenopausal period of 6 ± 4.8 years. The age of our patients and the length of their postmenopausal period exhibited a significant negative correlation with VHSI scores, while a longer postmenopausal period was associated with increased severity of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. Baseline VHSI values showed that 65% of patients had atrophic vaginitis with pronounced VVA symptoms (70.2% experienced vaginal itching, 73.8% reported vaginal burning, 95.3% had vaginal dryness, and 86.1% suffered from dyspareunia). Lower VHSI values significantly correlated with lower FSFI scores, while more severe VVA symptoms scores correlated with lower FSFI scores. VVA symptoms were significantly less severe after treatment. VHIS regained high non-atrophic values in 98.8% of patients post-treatment (p < 0.001). FSFI total and domain scores were significantly higher after treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our study revealed that fractional CO2 laser is a useful treatment option to alleviate VVA symptoms and improve vaginal health and sexual functioning in postmenopausal women.

Seven-day dietary nitrate supplementation clinically significantly improves basal macrovascular function in postmenopausal women: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover clinical trial.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, with increased risk following menopause. Dietary intake of beetroot juice and other plant-based nitrate-rich foods is a promising non-pharmacological strategy for increasing systemic nitric oxide and improving endothelial function in elderly populations. The purpose of this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover clinical trial was to determine the effects of short-term dietary nitrate (NO3 -) supplementation, in the form of beetroot juice, on resting macrovascular endothelial function and endothelial resistance to whole-arm ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in postmenopausal women at two distinct stages of menopause. Early-postmenopausal [1-6 years following their final menstrual period (FMP), n = 12] and late-postmenopausal (6+ years FMP, n = 12) women consumed nitrate-rich (400 mg NO3 -/70 mL) and nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (approximately 40 mg NO3 -/70 mL, placebo) daily for 7 days. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was measured pre-supplementation (Day 0), and approximately 24 h after the last beetroot juice (BR) dose (Day 8, post-7-day BR). Consequently, FMD was measured immediately post-IR injury and 15 min later (recovery). Results of the linear mixed-effects model revealed a significantly greater increase in resting FMD with 7 days of BRnitrate compared to BRplacebo (mean difference of 2.21, 95% CI [0.082, 4.34], p = 0.042); however, neither treatment blunted the decline in post-IR injury FMD in either postmenopausal group. Our results suggest that 7-day BRnitrate-mediated endothelial protection is lost within the 24-h period following the final dose of BRnitrate. Our findings demonstrate that nitrate-mediated postmenopausal endothelial protection is dependent on the timing of supplementation in relation to IR injury and chronobiological variations in dietary nitrate metabolism. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03644472.

Assessment of sexual function in postmenopausal breast cancer survivors.

Breast cancer (BC) is considered a risk factor for sexual dysfunction, which may be associated with the diagnosis itself or with oncological treatments. However, sexual dysfunction often remains underdiagnosed and unaddressed among BC survivors. The study sought to evaluate the sexual function of postmenopausal BC survivors compared with postmenopausal women without BC. This case-control study included 178 postmenopausal BC survivors (stages I-III), 45 to 70years of age, with amenorrhea for ≥12months and sexually active. They were compared with 178 women without BC, matched (±2years) for age and time since menopause in a 1:1 ratio. Sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which consists of 6 domains (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain), with a total score ≤26.5 indicating risk of sexual dysfunction. Statistical analysis included Student's t test, chi-square test, and logistic regression (odds ratio [OR]). Evaluation of sexual function in postmenopausal women treated for BC. Postmenopausal BC survivors showed poorer sexual function in the desire domain (P = .002). No significant differences were observed between groups in the other FSFI domains and total score (P >.05). Postmenopausal BC survivors had a higher prevalence of risk of sexual dysfunction (64.6% with a total score ≤26.5) compared with the control group (51.6%) (P = .010). Adjusted risk analysis for age and time since menopause revealed a higher risk of sexual dysfunction in BC survivors compared with women without cancer (OR, 1.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.29-2.96; P = .007). Among BC survivors, the use of hormone therapy was associated with a higher risk of sexual dysfunction (OR, 3.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.59-7.51; P = .002). Postmenopausal BC survivors should be regularly assessed before and throughout treatment to enable the early detection and diagnosis of sexual dysfunction. The main strength is that this study might contribute to a better understanding of sexual function in postmenopausal BC survivors compared with women without BC. The main limitation is that while the FSFI is a valid and reliable tool for the evaluation of female sexual function, it does not allow a comprehensive diagnosis of sexual dysfunction, as it is not applicable to partners. Compared with postmenopausal women without BC, postmenopausal BC survivors face a higher risk of sexual dysfunction, especially when treated with adjuvant hormone therapy.

Effect of home-based heat therapy on 24-h blood pressure and cutaneous microvascular function in post-menopausal women with hypertension

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and is often accompanied by microvascular dysfunction. Despite a clear effcacy in men, standard antihypertensive medications are less effective in post-menopausal women. Consequently, adjuvant therapies are needed to improve blood pressure control and microvascular function in post-menopausal women. Heat therapy may fill this therapeutic gap as it has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve microvascular function in healthy and certain clinical populations. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that 8 weeks of home-based heat therapy would improve 24-h blood pressure and cutaneous nitric oxide-dependent vasodilation in post-menopausal women with hypertension. Post-menopausal women (69 ± 5 y) with hypertension were randomized to 8 weeks of sham ( N = 15) or heat therapy ( N = 13). Participants immersed their lower legs ~33 cm into a circulated and temperature-controlled (sham: 35 °C; heat therapy: 42 °C) water bath 4 days per week, and 45 min per session. Blood pressure and cutaneous microvascular function and were assessed before (pre) and after (post) the 8-week intervention. Mean arterial blood pressure was measured across 24-h using an ambulatory monitor. To assess microvascular function, an intradermal microdialysis probe was inserted in the anterior aspect of the lower leg at a site directly exposed to water (immersed) and at another site not directly exposed (non-immersed). Red blood cell flux was measured (laser doppler flowmetry) during cutaneous hyperemia induced by 39 °C local heating. N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 20mM) was then infused in each probe until a nadir in red blood cell flux was achieved. Cutaneous vascular conductance was calculated as red blood cell flux divided by mean arterial pressure and normalized to maximal vasodilation (42 °C heating + 56 mM sodium nitroprusside; CVC%max). Nitric oxide-dependent dilation was calculated as the difference between CVC%max measured during the 39 °C plateau and the L-NAME nadir. Mean arterial blood pressure did not differ across time or between groups (sham: pre, 96 ± 5 mmHg vs. post, 96 ± 6 mmHg; heat therapy: pre, 97 ± 4 mmHg vs. 99 ± 7 mmHg; P = 0.5 for interaction). Cutaneous vasodilation induced by local heating did not differ across time for either group (sham: pre, 60 ± 19 CVC%max vs. post, 64 ± 12 CVC%max; heat therapy: pre, 68 ± 15 CVC%max vs. post, 63 ± 13 CVC%max) or between immersed and non-immersed sites ( P = 0.9 for interaction). Similarly, nitric oxide-dependent vasodilation did not differ across time or between sites for either group ( P = 1.0 for interaction). Taken together, 8 weeks of home-based heat therapy does not improve blood pressure or cutaneous microvascular function in post-menopausal women with hypertension. This work was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (T32 AG020494; R01AG059314; F32HL167556) and the American Heart Association (TPA958179). This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Does testosterone supplementation improve sexual function in postmenopausal women?

Does testosterone supplementation improve sexual function in postmenopausal women?

The Relationship between Depression and Anxiety with Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women: A Descriptive Correlational Study in Iran

Background: Psychological factors can affect sexual function. Symptoms of depression and anxiety may affect the sexual function of a woman after menopause. Objective: The study aimed to assess the correlation between depression and anxiety with the sexual function of postmenopausal women. Methods: This was a descriptive correlational study on 255 postmenopausal women. For sampling, a multi-stage method was used to recruit the eligible women from the health centers in Tehran-Iran. The questionnaires for data collection were the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the women was 52.60 ± 5.11 years. The mean total scores of FSFI, depression, trait anxiety, and State anxiety were 54.05 ± 30.73, 19.00 ± 12.86, 40.73 ± 16.33, and 39.82 ± 16.57 percent, respectively. The female sexual dysfunction was reported in 65.5 percent of subjects. The total scores of FSFI and its dimensions had a significant negative correlation with the scores of depression, Trait-, and state anxiety. There was a negative correlation between the total score of FSFI with the age of women and their husbands and the duration of menopause. A significant positive correlation was found between FSFI with the education of women and the adequacy of their family income. The occupations of the women and their husbands were also related to FSFI. The multiple linear regression showed that state anxiety and depression are potential predictors of FSFI. Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are associated with decreased sexual function in postmenopausal women. Therefore, adopting appropriate policies is necessary to reduce depression and anxiety among postmenopausal women to promote their mental health and sexual function. conclusion: Depression and anxiety are associated with decreased sexual function in postmenopausal women. Therefore, adopting appropriate policies are necessary to reduce depression and anxiety among postmenopausal women to promote their mental health and sexual function.

Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women with Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women with Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Effects of aerobic exercise on neurocognitive function in postmenopausal women receiving endocrine therapy for breast cancer: The Exercise Program in Cancer and Cognition randomized controlled trial.

The Exercise Program in Cancer and Cognition (EPICC) Study was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) designed to determine whether six months of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise improves neurocognitive function in women with breast cancer (BC) receiving endocrine therapy (ET). Postmenopausal women with hormone receptor+, early-stage BC, within two years post-primary therapy were randomized to the exercise intervention (six months, ≥150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise/week) or usual care control condition. Outcomes were assessed at pre-randomization and after intervention completion. Groups were compared using linear mixed-effects modeling. Participants (N=153) were years old, with stage I BC (64.1%) and a median of 4.7 months post-diagnosis. We found a group-by-time interaction (p=0.041) and a trend for the main effect of time (p=0.11) for processing speed with improved performance in the exercise group and no change in the controls. Similar main effects of time were observed for learning and memory (p=0.024) and working memory (p=0.01). Better intervention adherence was associated with improved processing speed (p=0.017). Six months of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise improves processing speed in postmenopausal women with BC receiving ET who initiate exercise within two years of completing primary therapy (surgery +/- chemotherapy). This is the first large-scale study to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on neurocognitive function in women with BC. Additional research is needed to address the long-term effects of aerobic exercise on cognitive function.

A comprehensive interventional program for promoting sexual function in postmenopausal women: Protocol for a mixed methods study.

Menopause is a natural event in women's life that leads to physical, psychological, and social consequences. A fundamental health concern in postmenopausal women is problems with their sexual function. This study aims to design an interventional program to promote sexual function in postmenopausal women. This sequential exploratory mixed methods study will be conducted in three phases. The first phase will be a qualitative study with a content analysis approach. The participants will be selected using a purposive sampling in Isfahan, Iran. The data will be collected through in-depth interviews and field notes and analyzed using conventional content analysis. In the second phase, the intervention will be designed and finalized to promote sexual function in postmenopausal women using the results of qualitative study and literature review, asking experts' opinions, and holding specialized panels. In the third phase, the intervention will be implemented (in the form of a quasi-experimental study) and the effect of the intervention will be determined. In this phase, the data will be collected using the female sexual function index. Finally, an appropriate interventional program will be presented. It is hoped to promote sexual function in postmenopausal women by conducting this study and implementing an appropriate interventional program that is culturally sensitive. If it is proved that the intervention is effective, a basis for health policy-making to promote sexual health in postmenopausal women can be provided by presenting evidence and increasing the knowledge in this field of health.

Correlation of anthropometric determinants, body fat distribution, and pulmonary function in postmenopausal women – An observational study

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation resulting from loss of ovarian follicular activity. This induces a reduction in resting metabolic rate, physical activity, and fat-free mass. Buildup of adipose tissues in the anterior abdominal wall and in the intra-abdominal visceral tissue hinders diaphragmatic movement and diminishes basal lung expansion during inspiration causes ventilation–perfusion abnormalities. Very few evidence of the correlation between body fat distribution and pulmonary function in menopausal women. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between anthropometry determinants, body fat distribution, and pulmonary function in postmenopausal women. SETTING AND DESIGN: After ethical committee approval, an observational study of 101 postmenopausal women fulfilling the criteria were selected from the tertiary care center. METHODOLOGY: Anthropometric measurements of participants such as height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were measured. Body fat distribution is evaluated by measuring skinfold at five sites (biceps, triceps, abdominal, suprailiac, and subscapular) with the help of Lange caliper. Pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in 1st second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC], FEV1/FVC, and peak expiratory flow rate) recorded on a computerized portable lung function unit. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: As the data were not in normal distribution, Spearmen’s correlation test was used. RESULTS: It showed that strong negative correlation existed between age and FVC (r = −0.742) and WHR and FEV1/FVC (r = −0.796). Furthermore, moderate negative correlation was found between biceps and FEV1 and FVC (r = −0.433 and r = −0.475), respectively, and abdominal skinfold and FEV1 and FVC (r = −0.628, r = −0.646) (P &lt; 0.05). CONCLUSION/CLINICAL IMPLICATION: It could be concluded that in postmenopausal women, there may be a negative correlation between anthropometry, body fat distribution, and pulmonary function.