A psychosomatic approach to the climacteric.

Two major aspects of the climacteric in women are endocrinological changes with their effects upon the sympathetic nervous system, and psychological factors leading to anxiety with its effect upon the sympathetic nervous system. Depending upon the circumstances in each case, the interruption of the vicious cycle thereby established may require hormonal therapy, psychotherapy, or both. The mere correction of hormonal imbalance may fall far short of effective treatment.