The effects of guided imagery on women’s health: a systematic review of experimental studies

Abstract

Guided imagery (GI) is a mind–body intervention that uses sensory visualizations to promote relaxation and healing. While being utilized in various clinical settings, its specific cumulative impact on women’s health across different life stages remains to be comprehensively synthesized. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of GI on psychological and physiological outcomes in women’s health, including gynecologic/breast cancer, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases for studies published between 2014 and 2024. The search terms included keywords related to “guided imagery,” “women’s health,” and “experimental studies”. We included randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies focusing on GI interventions in women. Data were extracted on study characteristics, participant demographics, intervention details, and outcomes. The methodological quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools. Results: A total of 29 studies (27 RCTs, 2 quasi-experimental) involving 1939 women were included. GI was found to significantly reduce anxiety, stress, depression, pain, and fatigue. It also improved quality of life and the overall labor experience during childbirth. The synthesis revealed that GI has evolved from a simple relaxation tool to a holistic mind–body intervention. Conclusions: Guided imagery is an effective, non-invasive, and low-cost complementary intervention that improves various psychological and physiological health outcomes in women. It should be integrated into clinical practice as part of patient-centered, holistic nursing care.