JAMA Netw Open

Does self-administered hypnosis help relieve hot flashes?

November 13, 2025

Study details: This 2025 randomized trial evaluated the efficacy of a self-administered hypnosis intervention vs. an active sham hypnosis control for hot flashes in women, including a subgroup with a history of breast cancer. The study used an innovative active control (sham white noise hypnosis) rather than a waitlist or inert control, and assessed both hot flash frequency/severity and daily interference over 12 weeks.

Results: Women in the self-administered hypnosis group experienced greater reductions in hot flash scores and daily interference compared with the sham control, with 60.4% in the hypnosis group achieving a ≥50% reduction in hot flash scores vs. 42.2% in the sham group (difference 18.2%, 95% confidence interval, 4%–31%, P = 0.006). Both groups reported some relief, but the hypnosis group had faster and more pronounced improvements. The intervention was safe and well tolerated.

Clinical impact: Remote, self-administered hypnosis is a safe and effective nonhormonal option for managing hot flashes, especially for women unable to use hormone therapy. This approach improves accessibility and may be particularly valuable for breast cancer survivors and others with contraindications to hormonal treatments.

Source:

Elkins G, et al. (2025, November 3). JAMA Netw Open. Self-Administered Hypnosis vs Sham Hypnosis for Hot Flashes: A Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41217756/