Women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, and it can last seven to 14 years. For some women symptoms are debilitating, but most experience hot flushes, mood changes and chills as a result of reduced oestrogen levels in the body.
Fortunately, there are four treatments women can consider seeking, to help minimise those symptoms. The treatment they choose will ultimately depend on their symptoms, medical history, and personal preference, and can include Menopausal Hormone Therapy, other prescription medications, alternative medicines, and lifestyle changes.
Below, I share the 6 things women could consider to better manage their symptoms of menopause:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT is a form of prescription medication that helps smooth out the hormonal ups and downs of menopause, derived from the hormones that naturally occur in the body: oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. HRT comes in the form of oral tablets, gels, patches, or creams and tablets that are placed in the vagina. There are various combinations of the hormones which benefit different women. For instance, progesterone can be used in combination with oestrogen and aims to prevent endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that occurs when the lining of the uterus grows too thick, while also minimise cancer risk.[1] On the other hand, testosterone can be prescribed in small amounts to women who struggle with low libido, low energy and fatigue.
It is important to understand that, with many medications, side effects can occur, including nausea, headaches or dizziness. In rare cases, HRT could increase one’s risk of breast cancer or thrombosis, and blood clots in the legs or lungs. I recommend women visit their doctor to weight out the benefits and risks and whether it is the most appropriate treatment option for them.
Tibolone. This is a type of hormone therapy used for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and the prevention of osteoporosis. It is made from an artificial hormone that mimics the characteristics of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. It helps preserve bone density, reduce hot flushes, combat vaginal dryness and increase libido.
Antidepressants. These can be helpful for women who cannot take oestrogen. They can help reduce the stress and anxiety that can often result from experiencing symptoms such as night sweats and hot flushes.
Isoflavones. It is also worth considering alternative medicines to help manage menopause symptoms. For instance, isoflavones, a molecule naturally occurring in foods such as soy and red clover, have been found to be effective for some women. A recent study found that women who consumed soy during their perimenopausal and postmenopausal stage saw the greatest improvement with their hot flushes.
Lifestyle changes. Maintaining an exercise routine and a healthy, balanced diet is foundational to decreasing the severity of symptoms. Moderate to high-intensity exercise, along with muscle-strengthening activities, such as walking, cycling and water aerobics, are important and can improve metabolism. Wearing breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen or bamboo can help keep the body cool when experiencing hot flushes.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT is based on the concept that thoughts, feelings and sensations are interconnected and that by breaking these down into smaller more manageable parts, negative thoughts and emotions can be tackled more easily. CBT can be helpful when experiencing mood swings.
Before starting any medication, even alternative medicines, it is important to see your doctor to find the most suitable treatment for you. Keep in mind that everyone is unique and what works for one person may not always work for another.
About Dr Andrew Thompson
Dr Andrew Thompson is a registered doctor at leading telehealth and prescription service InstantScripts. Dr Thompson has nearly a decade of experience, including as an anaesthetist in the paediatrics, cardiology, trauma, and neurosurgery departments in hospitals, and as a telehealth doctor at InstantScripts, where he consults to 30-50 patients a day. His expert commentary has appeared in major media where he provides advice on maintaining good physical and mental health, and addresses issues around the accessibility and affordability of healthcare for Australians. www.instantscripts.com.au
