LIFESTYLE INTERVENTIONS FOR PERIMENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS: BEYOND HORMONE THERAPY A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Background: Perimenopause is a transitional phase characterized by hormonal fluctuations that give rise to vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and metabolic alterations. While hormone therapy remains the most effective pharmacological treatment, many women either cannot use or prefer alternatives to hormonal approaches. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on lifestyle interventions as non-pharmacological strategies for managing perimenopausal symptoms. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials published between 2014 and 2025. Key search terms included perimenopause, menopause, lifestyle interventions, exercise, diet, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, yoga, and sleep hygiene.