Menopause is the end of a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle, which signifies the end of her fertility. A woman is usually considered menopausal after going one year without a menstrual cycle. Although it’s not an illness, menopause can cause a variety of symptoms due to the hormonal changes. Symptoms may include, hot flashes, weight gain, especially around the stomach, mood swings, and insomnia.
Because all women are different and may have different symptoms, there is not one menopause treatment which is considered the best. The good news is, there are many different ways to treat menopause symptoms. Most women can find effective treatments for their individual needs.
One of the most common type of menopause treatment is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). As a woman ages, the level of estrogen and progesterone produced decreases. The decrease often causes symptoms. HRT can include both estrogen and progesterone, or just estrogen. It can be taken as either a pill or by a patch.
For women who are having multiple symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swing and vaginal dryness, HRT may be a good choice. It may also reduce the risk of osteoporosis. There may be some risks associated with HRT, such as an increase risk of certain cancers.
Other types of medication may also be prescribed as menopause treatment. If mood swings or irritability are the primary problem, low doses of anti-depressants may help. Anti-depressants may also help reduce hot flashes.
There are also several natural ways to help reduce symptoms of menopause. Getting regular exercise is considered one of the best ways to deal with menopausal weight gain and muscle loss. Since menopausal women are also at risk of osteoporosis, weight bearing exercises may also reduce that risk. A program which combines aerobic exercise, strength training and stretching is best.
Healthy eating may also combat certain menopausal symptoms. Eating foods low in saturated fat may help reduce weight gain. In addition, eating low fat dairy products may help prevent bone loss. Avoid spicy foods and alcoholic beverages, which may contribute to hot flashes. Studies about the benefits of soy and herbs, such as black cohosh, on menopause symptoms are inconclusive, therefore women should talk to their doctor before taking them.
Additional menopause treatment which may help with symptoms include acupuncture and massage. Both may help reduce anxiety and stress which contribute to symptoms. Although not all women will have symptoms relieved, there are no side effects from either and they may help a woman relax.
Keep in mind all women are different and may experience different symptoms. It’s best to talk with a doctor first to determine the best treatment. It also may take a bit of trail and error before an effective treatment is found.
