Self-Hypnosis Reduces Menopausal Hot Flashes, Especially in Breast Cancer Survivors: JAMA

A new randomized clinical trial published in *JAMA Network Open* by Elkins et al. has found that self-administered clinical hypnosis substantially reduces the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes, providing meaningful relief and improvement in daily life quality compared with a sham control. Participants who practiced hypnosis experienced lower hot flash interference scores, greater perceived benefit, and overall improved sleep and emotional well-being. The technique, which involves guided relaxation and focused attention, was delivered through structured sessions that participants could self-administer, making it a practical and non-pharmacologic option for symptom management.

The benefits were particularly pronounced among women with a history of breast cancer—a group that often faces limited treatment choices due to contraindications for hormone therapy. Hypnosis provided an effective, drug-free intervention without the risks associated with hormonal or pharmacologic agents. The study reinforces the role of mind-body therapies in addressing vasomotor symptoms and enhancing overall quality of life during menopause. Importantly, women in the hypnosis group reported high satisfaction and strong adherence, underscoring its acceptability and potential for integration into clinical care settings.

These findings add to growing evidence that behavioral and psychological therapies can play a significant role in managing menopause-related symptoms. The use of self-hypnosis empowers women to take an active role in symptom control, offering a sustainable and accessible tool that complements existing non-hormonal therapies. The authors recommend that future research explore long-term outcomes, optimal session frequency, and implementation in diverse populations. For clinicians, hypnosis may represent an evidence-based addition to individualized care plans—especially for breast cancer survivors seeking safe, effective alternatives to hormone replacement therapy.

Keywords: self-hypnosis, menopausal hot flashes, breast cancer survivors, non-hormonal therapy, vasomotor symptoms, JAMA Network Open

Reference: Elkins, G. R., Fisher, W. I., Carpenter, J. S., Keith, T. Z., Hsieh, C., & Patel, P. (2025). Effects of self-administered clinical hypnosis on hot flashes in women with and without a history of breast cancer: A randomized clinical trial. *JAMA Network Open, 8*(11), e2841242. [https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.41242](https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.41242)