IMPACT OF HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY ON FATIGUE AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG POST-MENOPAUSAL WOMEN WITH URINARY INCONTINENCE

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) plays a significant role in managing menopausal symptoms, including fatigue and reduced quality of life. Postmenopausal women with urinary incontinence often experience heightened physical and emotional distress, impacting their daily functioning. Evaluating the effects of HRT on fatigue and quality of life can offer insights into improving overall well-being in this population. OBJECTIVES: To determine the impact of HRT on fatigue and quality of life among postmenopausal women with urinary incontinence.  METHODOLGY: It was a Cross-sectional Study. Non-Probability Convenient sampling technique was used. The sample size was 124 which is calculated by epitool by using single mean proportion formula. The study area was the gynecological clinics and Lady Atchison Hospital Lahore. The individuals were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and informed consent was obtained from them. The objective and procedure were explained to every individual and the required data were obtained. The assessment tool used for the study was Menopause Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). The duration of the study was 6 months. During this time, tasks such as determining the sample size, collecting data, analyzing results, and interpreting findings were all completed within the established timeframe.  RESULTS: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months using a non-probability convenient sampling technique, with a sample size of 124. The participants' mean age was 50.02 ± 6.12 years, with most aged between 43 and 58 years, showing a normal distribution. Exactly 50% of participants reported using Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). On the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), 68% reported moderate to high fatigue affecting physical functioning, motivation, and social life. MENQOL results showed that 72% experienced hot flashes and night sweats, 65% had anxiety and memory issues, and 58% reported muscle/joint aches and emotional disturbances like depression and social withdrawal.  CONCLUSION: Our study concluded that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) improves quality of life and reduces fatigue in postmenopausal women with urinary incontinence. Women on HRT reported less exhaustion and better overall wellbeing. However, as fatigue persisted to some extent, additional interventions like physiotherapy are recommended for further support