Published Paper


Impact of the Kegel Exercise and Self-Empowerment (KESE) Program on Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life in Urban Women: A Pilot Study

Somibala Thokchom1 & David Ratna Paul Talagatoti2*
Sharda School of Nursing Science and Research, Sharda University, UP, India
Page: 1560-1571
Published on: 2024 December

Abstract

Introduction: Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurring around the age of 51. This transition is characterized by hormonal fluctuations, leading to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. Common symptoms include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, which can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. The increasing number of women reaching menopause emphasizes the need for effective management strategies. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as exercise programs, are being explored as ways to alleviate menopausal symptoms and enhance overall well-being. Aim: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the KESE (Kegel exercises and self-empowerment) program in improving menopausal symptoms and overall quality of life among women undergoing menopause. Methods: A group of postmenopausal women participated in a structured KESE program, which included Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, along with self-empowerment techniques like relaxation and visualization. The participants’ menopausal symptoms and quality of life were assessed before and after the intervention using standardized questionnaires and assessments. Results: The results demonstrate that the KESE program significantly improved menopausal symptoms and quality of life in the experimental group. The reduction in MRS scores (t = 3.12, p = 0.02) and the improvement in QoL scores (t = -3.42, p = 0.014) indicate the program's effectiveness. In contrast, the control group showed no significant changes in either measure. These findings suggest that the KESE program is an effective intervention for alleviating menopausal symptoms and enhancing well-being.Participants also reported enhanced overall well-being, with improvements in both physical and mental health. Additionally, there was a noted improvement in pelvic floor muscle strength and a reduction in symptoms of urinary incontinence. Discussion: The KESE program proved to be an effective intervention for managing menopausal symptoms. The combination of physical exercises and self-empowerment techniques addressed both the physiological and psychological aspects of menopause. These findings suggest that non-pharmacological interventions can be valuable tools for improving women’s health during menopause, providing an alternative or complement to pharmacological treatments. Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term benefits of such programs.

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