Over-the-Counter Remedies for Menopause

Menopause marks the end of fertility in women. While it may be artificially induced, such as by hysterectomy, at any age, menopause occurs naturally to all women on average at around age 51. It is defined as beginning after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, and it continues throughout the rest of the woman's life. Menopause is not a disease, so it cannot be cured. However, there are some over-the-counter remedies that may help alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause.

Diet

• Consume a healthy diet. Shoot for a balance of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit your intake of saturated fats, oils and sugars. Ensure you get 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams of calcium each day, along with 800 international units (IUs) of vitamin D. If you can't pack all of that calcium and vitamin D into your diet, you should talk to your doctor regarding a good over-the-counter supplement to help make up the difference. The calcium and vitamin D are important in combating osteoporosis, which affects up to 1/3 of all post-menopausal women.

Help for Vaginal Discomfort

• One symptom of menopause may be vaginal dryness, which is especially uncomfortable during sexual activity. There are numerous over-the-counter water-based lubricants and moisturizers such as KY and Vagisil that can complement your body's natural lubricants. You should, however, avoid petroleum-based lubricants.

Herbal Supplements

• Talk with your doctor before taking over- the-counter herbal supplements to alleviate symptoms of menopause. Even though black cohosh, licorice, evening primrose, flaxseed oil and a number of other herbal supplements have a wide following around the world and there is much anecdotal evidence in support of their use as a convenient remedy for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, there is little scientific evidence regarding either their effectiveness or safety.