If treatments for menopause have you confused, this guide might help.
It’s something all women experience, and something you’re probably talking a lot about with your friends. But still, women have plenty of unanswered questions surrounding menopause. Our goal is to add to the conversation in a way that’s helpful to you.
Martie Nightingale is a certified nurse midwife who also holds a certification in menopause, lifestyle medicine, and perinatal mental health at Intermountain Health. She shared some proactive ways for women to prioritize health as they approach menopause.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Menopause can start affecting women earlier than you might think. Martie explained, “Our hormones can start fluctuating even in our thirties and forties. Usually, the first thing we see is changes in our period.” These changes can include cycles getting longer or shorter, periods becoming heavier or lighter, and even skipping periods altogether.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for menopause symptoms. Martie noted, “We usually will prescribe hormones like estrogen and progesterone at the lowest dose possible just to combat the symptoms of menopause.” However, not all women need HRT. It’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider whether your symptoms significantly affect your quality of life and if HRT is a good option for you.
Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormones are another term often heard in discussions about menopause. “It’s a bit controversial,” Martie said. “Bioidentical is just hormones that are made to mimic the hormones in your body.”
These can be prescribed by large pharmaceutical companies or compounded pharmacies. “The ones that are from a large pharmaceutical company have been tested and they’re FDA approved. We consider those more safe just because you know what you’re getting.” Martie explained.
She still advised caution, however. “If you don’t know the exact dose you’re really getting and it hasn’t been tested and not FDA approved, you potentially are getting something more unsafe.”
Non-Hormonal Treatments
For those who cannot or prefer not to use HRT, there are non-hormonal options available. Martie mentioned, “There is an SSRI, which is a type of antidepressant that’s FDA-approved for hot flashes.” Other treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and even hypnosis, which have shown effectiveness in managing symptoms like hot flashes.
Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact how women experience menopause. Martie emphasized the importance of a whole foods, a plant-based diet, particularly one high in whole soy, which has been shown to decrease hot flashes. “Also that’s an opportunity for some weight loss or maintenance of your weight. It also helps with sleep, if you’re having some of that brain fog,” she explained.
She also recommended specific exercises to prevent osteoporosis and improve overall health. “Weight-bearing exercise does help prevent osteoporosis,” she said, adding that activities like yoga can improve balance and prevent falls, and improve sleep.
Avoiding Risky Substances
Certain substances can exacerbate menopause symptoms or increase health risks. Martie pointed out two concerns during the menopause phase. “Tobacco use impacts risk for osteoporosis, and alcohol intake does increase the risk of breast cancer,” she emphasized.
Seeking Professional Advice
Finally, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals to navigate menopause effectively. Martie encouraged women to reach out to their providers to discuss symptoms and treatment options. “Talk to your medical professional for sure because there are so many nuances,” she advised.
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