What treatments are available for menopause?

There are many different treatments available for menopause, however, some women will not need treatment and their symptoms will subside over time. The remaining women will opt for a treatment in order to help their symptoms and to prevent bone loss. Some of the treatments are available as prescription drugs, HRT (hormone replacement therapy), natural supplements and surgery.

First, let’s go over the traditional menopause treatments. The five types of traditional treatment include estrogen replacement therapy, progestins, 1500 mg of calcium daily, anti-anxiety drugs and anti-depressants. There are, however, several alternatives to the traditional treatment. There are herbal remedies such as black cohosh, red clover and evening primrose. Another alternative is over-the-counter natural progesterone. A proper diet and exercise and/or taking daily vitamin supplements that contain Vitamin E, B6, B Complex and Magnesium are yet a couple more options.

Now, let’s examine the most popular treatment--estrogen replacement therapy--further in depth. In the past, estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) has been successful in relieving hot flashes, reducing the occurrence of osteoporosis and heart disease and may even improve your mood and overall mental health. Unfortunately, there are several drawbacks to ERT. These include increasing the overall risk of cancer, especially in the uterus and breasts, side effects like irritability or bloating and may be dangerous to women with blood clots. ERT can be administered through a skin patch, a gel/cream, taken orally or through a vaginal ring. Although ERT has had previous success, several negative discoveries have recently surfaced. However, the risks of this treatment are still constantly being evaluated.

Lastly, relax and do not stress out! There are plenty of treatments to choose from, so you and your doctor can find the best one that suits you.

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