Effects of Physical Exercise on Symptoms and Quality of Life in Women in Climacteric: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Climacteric is a period of hormonal changes in women characterised by physical, emotional, and interpersonal alterations. This period is divided into two phases: perimenopause (the period from the appearance of the first symptoms to the arrival of menopause) and postmenopause (up to approximately 64 years of age). The progression of symptoms varies for each woman and can negatively affect self-esteem and quality of life. One of the most commonly used tools to reduce these negative effects is the performance of different types of physical exercise. The objective of this review was to summarise the research on the effects of both aerobic and strength exercises in women during the transition from perimenopause to postmenopause. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Initially, 1995 articles published in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science between January 2014 and June 2024 were identified. From these articles, two researchers separately selected eight randomised controlled trials and compared the effects of aerobic and strength exercises with no activity. The risk of bias in the included articles was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomised clinical trials. Results: Most of the trials reported that both types of exercise, when performed in a controlled and regular way, have beneficial effects on the vitality and mental health of women in climacteric, increasing their general quality of life. A meta-analysis revealed that aerobic exercise improved the symptoms of menopause, although studies that support the effect of aerobic exercise on vasomotor symptoms are lacking. Resistance exercise was shown to strengthen muscles, increase bone density, and protect against osteoporosis. Conclusions: Physical exercise is a safe and nonpharmacological option that has positive effects on the health of women in climacteric.