Treating Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause is the cessation of menstrual periods over a period of 12 months and when ovaries stop functioning. A woman's body undergoes hormonal changes during menopause that cause physical and emotional symptoms. Treatments are available to help make the transition more bearable.

Hormone Therapy

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves taking estrogen or estrogen and progesterone combined--hormones that offset declining estrogen levels. Low estrogen levels can cause hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and HRT can alleviate these symptoms. HRT, while effective, has shown to increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and breast cancer. Because of such risk factors, each individual and her doctor will need to access the risks and benefits of HRT. Estrogen creams are available to combat vaginal dryness. The creams are applied daily for two weeks, then once or twice a week after to maintain moisture.

Medications

• Anti-depressants such as Prozac and Zoloft may be prescribed to help curb hot flashes and help with emotional problems associated with declining estrogen levels. Low estrogen levels can lead to bone loss, so doctors may prescribe medication such as Boniva to combat osteoporosis. Clonidine comes in pill or patch form and may help reduce hot flashes. The drug is primarily used for high blood pressure and can have unpleasant side effects.

Home Remedies

• Hot flashes can be triggered by certain conditions or foods such as hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol and hot weather. Avoiding these conditions or foods can help stave off hot flashes. Eating healthily and exercising regularly can alleviate symptoms of menopause by reducing your stress level. Use over-the-counter vaginal lubricants such as KY jelly for vaginal discomfort during intercourse. Vitamin E and Black Cohosh have been used to reduce hot flashes, but no scientific proof is available to confirm their effectiveness. Discuss any exercise programs, dietary changes or supplement intake with your doctor first.