Effect of phytoestrogens on sexual function in menopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Najaf Najafi M, Ghazanfarpour M
Published in Climacteric
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of trials of phytoestrogens on sexual function and dyspareunia in menopausal women; quality rated with the Jadad scale
Key Findings
Soy showed no effect on sexual function (SMD 1.099, 95% CI -3.033 to 0.835, P = 0.265). Effects varied by preparation, with maritime pine bark, fenugreek and fennel showing more promise than soy isoflavones.
Conclusions
Phytoestrogens as a class do not reliably improve sexual function; results depend heavily on the specific plant preparation.
Limitations
Small heterogeneous trials, inconsistent outcome measures, variable quality
Supplements Studied
Published reports show that maritime pine bark, T. foenum-graecum L., and F. vulgare could be considered as
Outcomes Measured
Soy did not have an effect on sexual function (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.099 [95% CI: -3.033 to 0.835, p = 0.265])
Study Details
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