The experience of women in a phase II trial of hypnosis and progressive muscle relaxation for body image: informing future research questions.

This study examines feedback from two interventions, hypnosis and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), to improve body image in a randomized phase II trial. Eighty-seven women were randomized either to hypnosis or PMR. Sixty-three women (72%) were motivated to write comments about their study experience. These comments were explored in an unplanned qualitative analysis. Thematic analysis generated five themes, suggesting both hypnosis and PMR may improve body image through the ability to relax and manage stress, sleep better, improve mood and create a mind-body connection. Sexual health emerged as a theme for participants in only the hypnosis group which suggests hypnotic suggestions for body image may improve overall sexual health. Additional research is needed to assess this further.