ACUPUNCTURE ON HOT FLASHES

Abstract

Objective: To describe the techniques of acupuncture applied on the relief of hot flashes in climacteric women.Method: Systematic review at Medline database, using the PICO method, where P = Postmenopausal, I = O = Acupuncture and Hot Flashes, scientific articles and controlled trials on the topic in question. A total of 12 articles met the inclusion criteria, healthy women in the pre and post menopause and women at risk for hormone therapy, reporting hot flashes, submitted to the techniques of acupuncture and electro acupuncture systemic. Results: Studies analyzed indicate symptom relief for hot flashes in variants severity (mean 50%) and frequency (average 45%), but electro acupuncture, when viewed in the long run, has a better outcome for systemic acupuncture. Conclusions: Studies suggests that the practice of acupuncture is safe and effective to alleviate hot flashes in both healthy women and women with contraindications to hormone therapy.