Managing hot flushes with cognitive behavioural therapy with Dr Adrian Lopresti and Dr Melanie Smith
FX Medicine Podcast CentralShow Notes
Menopause is far more than a hormonal shift; it is a complex biopsychosocial transition that impacts every aspect of a woman’s life. In this episode, Dr Adrian Lopresti speaks with UK clinical psychologist Dr Melanie Smith, a leading researcher in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for menopause. Together, they explore how CBT, an evidence-based lifestyle intervention, can help women better manage stress and significantly reduce menopausal symptoms, including vasomotor symptoms.
Dr Smith explains the science behind the narrowed thermoneutral zone and how educating women about this physiology can reduce anxiety and improve day-to-day function. Listeners will gain insights into stress management, paced breathing, cognitive reframing, and sleep strategies that enhance wellbeing and quality of life.
Evidence-based and endorsed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and featured in the International Menopause Society 2025 white paper, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) offers practitioners a valuable, non-pharmacological lifestyle medicine approach. It provides an effective option for women who are unable or choose not to use menopause hormone therapy (MHT), and also complements MHT for those who do. By integrating CBT into menopause care, health professionals can empower women with personalised, compassionate, and holistic support throughout the menopause transition and beyond.
Covered in this episode:
(01:50) Welcome Dr Melanie Smith
(02:54) Symptoms transitioning in to menopause
(04:34) Mood related problems
(09:06) Sleep disturbance
(11:39) Night sweats
(16:08) Hot flushes and blushing
(19:38) Cognitive behavioural therapy and menopause
(26:21) Stress management
(32:18) Lifestyle factors
(39:27) Managing symptoms
(44:35) Learn more about CBT
(47:27) Final remarks
Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/managing-hot-flushes-with-cognitive-behavioural-therapy
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