Effects of soya milk on menopausal symptoms among women residing in selected rural community, Bengaluru, India

Menopause is a natural event associated with gradual reduction of estrogen production. Decrease level of estrogen cause physical, psychological and urogenital symptoms among women. Soya bean contains phytoestrogen which are similar to the hormone estrogen. Soya milk is derived from soya bean, helps to relieve menopausal symptoms. The present study used an evaluative approach with true experimental pre-test post-test control group design to evaluate the effects of soya milk on menopausal symptoms among women. Sample comprised of 125 health postmenopausal women who met inclusion criteria by purposive sampling methods and were randomized in to experimental (n=63) or the control group (n=62). Data was collected using demographic proforma, and Menopausal Rating Scale (MRS). Experimental group was given daily supplements of 200 ml of homemade soya milk for the period of six weeks. Control group participants did not receive any intervention. Data collected was analyzed based on the objectives and hypotheses of the study. Study results revealed that an experimental group who received soya milk shows significant difference in the reduction in MRS score (p<0.001).