The effect of probiotic administration on the severity of menopausal symptoms and mental health of postmenopausal women: a triple-blind randomized controlled trial in the West of Iran

Menopausal symptoms are a reproductive health issue for women. Some studies have suggested that the use of probiotics may alleviate the severity of menopausal symptoms and mental health status. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of probiotic administration on the severity of menopausal symptoms and improve mental health in postmenopausal women in Hamadan, Western Iran. A triple-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted from February 20, 2023, to August 23, 2023, at the Comprehensive Health Service Centers in Hamadan City, Western Iran. Participants were randomized to intervention and control groups. The participants in the intervention group were administered probiotic supplements in 200 mg daily capsules for 6 weeks, and those in the control group received 200 mg daily capsules containing starch powder for 6 weeks. The primary outcomes were measured using the Menopausal Rating Scale and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale questionnaires at baseline, week 3, and week 6. A total of 84 women took part in the study, with 42 individuals assigned to each of the intervention and control groups, respectively. The findings indicated no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the study groups ( P > 0.05). The results indicated that the study outcomes changed differently over time between the two groups. The participants in the intervention group exhibited greater improvements in depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress symptoms, as well as in physical, psychological, and urogenital symptoms at both week 3 and week 6, compared with the control group ( P < 0.05). This study provides evidence regarding potential treatment effects of probiotics consumption in alleviating physical and mental symptoms related to menopause. Further multicenter and large-scale clinical trials with longer follow-up are recommended.