Yoga in Women With Surgical Menopause After Gynecological Cancer

Surgical menopause after gynecological cancer surgery is associated with sudden and severe symptoms that may reduce quality of life, disturb sleep, and affect overall well-being. Supportive non-pharmacological approaches such as yoga may help manage these challenges.

This randomized controlled trial will investigate the effects of an 8-week yoga program on quality of life, sleep quality, and spiritual well-being in women who have entered surgical menopause. Forty-six participants will be randomly assigned to either a yoga intervention group or a control group. The intervention group will attend two yoga sessions per week (one online, one face-to-face) in small groups or individually with a certified instructor, while the control group will receive usual care and be offered yoga after the study.

Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-intervention (8 weeks), and 3-month follow-up using standardized questionnaires. It is expected that yoga will support symptom management and improve overall well-being in this patient population.

Inclusion criteria

Age between 18-65 years Diagnosis of primary gynecological cancer (ovarian, endometrial, cervical, vaginal, or vulvar) (Stage I-III) Ability to read, understand, and speak Turkish Completion of all adjuvant treatments (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy) at least 6 months prior Access to the internet Having a computer/tablet/phone with a camera Willingness and ability to attend at least 80% of the yoga sessions Voluntary participation in the study

Exclusion criteria

Any condition that prevents communication Cognitive, sensory, or physical impairment that prevents yoga practice Diagnosis of metastatic gynecological cancer Regular yoga practice within the last 6 months (at least once a week for 8 consecutive weeks)