Treatments for Menopause
While there is no way to stop menopause, there are several methods for reducing the symptoms of menopause. Exercise, antidepressants, herbal treatments and a diet low in caffeine, sugar and spicy foods but high in grains, soy, wheat, fresh fruits and vegetables help relieve some of the symptoms. Research has also found that certain vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin E, can help reduce menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. We offer the following services for women going through menopause:
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy, also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy, is one option to relieve menopausal symptoms. Women produce less and less estrogen as they age, and those levels decrease even more during menopause causing hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, etc. Replenishing the estrogen in a woman's body is an effective way of reducing menopausal symptoms. Many doctors prescribe estrogen combined with progestin to keep your uterine lining from overgrowing, which can cause endometrial cancer.
Hormone therapy can be prescribed in several different forms: pills, patches, gels and creams. However, hormone therapy is not for everyone – especially women with breast cancer. Hormone therapy has been found to cause an increase in breast cancer, stroke and heart attacks. Talk to your physician to find out the advantages and risks of hormone therapy and if it is an option for you.
Vaginal Estrogen Therapy
Vaginal estrogen is applied in the vaginal area to promote collagen production. The collagen helps rebuild the lining of the vagina, alleviating dryness and irritation. It also helps reduce pain during intercourse.
Vaginal estrogen comes in three forms: cream, vaginal ring, and vaginal tablets. Because the estrogen is inserted and absorbed in the vagina, it does not get into the bloodstream. Therefore, the risks are lower in comparison to hormone replacement therapy.