Menopause occurs when a woman’s body stops releasing eggs and her menstrual cycle ceases. This is a natural biological process, not a medical illness. Technically, women don’t actually ‘hit’ menopause until it’s been one year since their final menstrual period. In North America, that happens on average at about age 51. Signs and symptoms
Often appearing long before the one-year anniversary of the final period, the signs and symptoms include: Irregular periods; Decreased fertility; Vaginal dryness; Hot flashes; Sleep disturbances; Mood swings; Increased abdominal fat; Thinning hair; Loss of breast fullness. Menopause itself requires no medical treatment. Instead, treatments focus on relieving the signs and symptoms and on preventing or lessening chronic conditions that may occur with aging. Treatments may include hormonal therapy, low dose antidepressants, biphosphonates (non-hormonal medications), selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), vaginal estrogen, etc. The good news is many of the signs and symptoms are temporary. Simple steps to reduce/prevent symptoms - Cool hot flashes with regular exercise.
- Pinpoint what triggers your hot flashes. These may include hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, hot weather or warm rooms.
- Decreasing vaginal discomfort can be accomplished with over-the-counter water-based vaginal lubricants or moisturizers
- Get enough sleep. Relaxation techniques can be very helpful.
- Strengthen your pelvic floor through Kegel exercises to improve urinary incontinence.
- Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit saturated fats, oils and sugars.
| Complementary treatments
Those that have been or are being studied: Phytoestrogens occur naturally in certain foods. Whether the estrogens in these foods can relieve hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms remains to be seen.
Vitamin E can provide relief from mild hot flashes for some women. However, scientific studies haven’t proved its overall benefit.
Black cohosh has been widely used in Europe for treating hot flashes and is popular among women in North America. While its safety record has been good, there’s not much evidence to believe that it is effective for menopausal symptom relief.
Other dietary supplements include dong quai, licorice, chasteberry, evening primrose oil and wild yam (natural progesterone cream). Although some swear by these remedies, scientific evidence of their safety and effectiveness is still lacking. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbal treatments or dietary supplements. Herbal products can interfere or interact with other medications you may be taking. H&L For questions you would like answered by a Pharmacist professional please write to the  |
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