Once we know for certain that the physical and psychological symptoms are connected to menopause, the first obvious question is how the symptoms can be alleviated. The treatment of menopause, like its symptoms and course, varies from one person to another and depends on many factors. It may be influenced by one’s physical and mental state and lifestyle, and different treatment may be required in different phases depending on what works when. It is best to familiarize yourself with every option so you can choose the one that is most suitable for you.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, and women may have symptoms during this phase. Perimenopause can last from a few months to up to 10 years, and it may start, stop, and start up again. The amount of estrogen made by your ovaries starts to change in your 30s and 40s. You may notice this is happening because your periods begin to change as hormone levels go up and down.
Some changes you might notice include changes in the time between your periods, missing periods, changes in bleeding patterns during your period (heavier or lighter), and possible bleeding between periods. Changes in menstrual bleeding are pretty normal during perimenopause, but it is still a good idea to talk to your doctor or nurse about them.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Your body stops making certain hormones during perimenopause and menopause, so taking them as medicine may help with symptoms and have added health benefits. Hormone therapy works by replacing the hormones that your body stops making when you’re going through perimenopause and menopause. During therapy, you can either take estrogen only, or estrogen and progestin in a so-called combined therapy.
For moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms short-term hormone therapy is recommended, except for women with a history of or a high risk for breast cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke or any other kind of thromboembolic event or active liver disease. Women with intact uteruses should choose combined therapy, meaning they are recommended to take the hormone progestin as well.
Lifestyle changes & physical activity
Menopause can be very taxing on the body, which means it is advised for women to take as good care of themselves as possible to avoid the significant deterioration of their quality of life. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, and taking up regular exercise and a balanced diet may help the body and mind stay more energized and healthy in times when menopause puts a great strain on them.
Alternative treatment options
Scientific evidence is poor for the effectiveness of alternative treatments despite their relative popularity. The most widely used alternative remedies are soy isoflavones, phytoestrogens (coumestrol, femarelle, or black cohosh), acupuncture, or any kind of herbal or dietary supplements, but we cannot say they are definitely helpful when it comes to menopausal symptoms.
Individual issues can be treated with specific treatments, such as vaginal lubricants for dryness and sexual problems, and special pelvic exercises for urinary problems.
Hormone replacement therapy (or HRT for short) can help reduce hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep problems, urinary tract infections, sudden urges to pee, and arthritis pain. The risk of using HRT for healthy women for a five-year period is very low. To decide which therapy and application method is the best for you, consult your gynecologist.