There are a variety of different treatment options available which can be considered to help improve menopausal symptoms
Lifestyle and wellbeing changes
- Lifestyle changes can help improve your general health and wellbeing and can help limit the impact of triggers and symptoms.
- Exercising regularly, having a healthy balanced diet, not smoking and limiting alcohol can help improve symptoms during menopause. These interventions can also help with bone health and general wellbeing.
- Relaxation techniques, such as visualisation, and mindfulness can help promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
- Psychological therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be used to help with the management of some menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and low mood or anxiety.
Hormonal and Non-Hormonal options
- Hormonal treatments, including hormone replacement therapy, can help with wide ranging menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and sweats, as many other symptoms.
- Topical hormonal oestrogen is applied directly to the vaginal area to help alleviate symptoms associated with changes to the vulva and vagina.
- Vaginal moisturisers and vaginal lubricants are used to help with vulval and vaginal symptoms. Vaginal moisturisers tend to be longer acting than lubricants.
- There is some evidence that using isoflavones (naturally occurring oestrogen mimicking products) and black cohosh may help relieve menopausal flushes and sweats. However, multiple preparations exist, and the safety of these products is uncertain.
- Certain prescription only medications, such as some antidepressants, are prescribed to help reduce menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes.