Hormone replacement therapy is designed to relieve menopausal symptoms in women and help prevent conditions such as osteoporosis and cancer. Hormone therapy may employ the use of estrogen alone or a combination of estrogen and progesterone. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), findings from studies dating back to 2002 have revealed hormone replacement therapy poses health risks and may increase a woman's likelihood of experiencing heart attack and stroke. Women may prefer to use alternatives to hormone replacement to control menopausal symptoms.
Phytoestrogens
According to the NIH, phytoestrogens may be helpful in reducing hot flashes experienced by menopausal women. Phytoestrogens are estrogen-like compounds found in food such as soybeans. Phytoestrogens can also be found in plant sources such as black cohosh, red clover and Valerian root. However, the NIH warns that little is known about the safety and efficacy of plant-based dietary supplements. In addition, evidence supporting the use of phytoestrogens in the management of hot flashes is anecdotal and is not based on scientific studies.
Lifestyle Changes
According to Patient UK, women who lead an active life may suffer less from menopausal symptoms. However, the type of activity is important, as some forms of exercise may actually worsen menopausal symptoms. Patient UK recommends doing sustained aerobic exercise such as swimming or jogging; high-impact exercise done sporadically may make symptoms worse. Weight-bearing exercises may also help delay the onset of osteoporosis. Avoiding spicy food and stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol may also help reduce hot flashes, notes Patient UK.
Antidepressants
Women experiencing menopause may find they feel low or have mood swings. Antidepressants or antianxiety drugs may help improve mental well-being. Examples of antidepressants that may be prescribed for menopausal mood swings include citalopram, paroxetine and fluoxetine. According to the NIH, these drugs may also help women experiencing hot flashes, although they have only proven to be moderately effective in clinical studies. Since antidepressants can cause side effects, including an increased risk of bone density loss in people over 65 years of age, women should weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks.
