Menopause Alternative Treatments

These treatments may help reduce the symptoms of menopause; however, not all of them are backed by scientific evidence. Some of the following approaches have been, or are currently being, studied.

Phytoestrogens

Phytoestrogens are chemical compounds found in plants that are similar to human estrogen. Two types, lignans and isoflavones, are the most-studied. Flaxseed, whole grains, and some fruits and vegetables contain lignans. Isoflavones are found in soybeans (including soy food products like tofu, tempeh, and soy milk), chickpeas, and other legumes. Some research has shown that these phytoestrogens can help with hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms. But because isoflavones have some weak estrogen-like effects, there is a concern about cancer risk, especially with women who have been diagnosed with estrogen-dependent breast cancer. Seek a medical opinion before using an isoflavone supplement since it could alter the way other drugs work or cause an overdose. The herb black cohosh is used heavily in Europe for relieving hot flashes because the plant may act like estrogen. It is available as a supplement in the United States, but its effectiveness and long-term safety are still being studied.

Other plant sources of phytoestrogens include: red clover, kava, dong quai, licorice, valerian root, chasteberry, evening primrose oil, and wild yam. However, there is little scientific evidence of the effectiveness or safety of these treatments.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E has been reported to reduce hot flashes for some women though scientific studies haven’t proven its effectiveness. Note that taking more than 1000 international units (IUs) of vitamin E daily may be dangerous.

Bioidentical Hormones

Bioidentical hormones are hormones that are chemically identical to those in your body, but are derived from plant chemicals. There are some bioidentical hormones that are FDA-approved and available with a prescription; others are mixed individually in a pharmacy and are not FDA approved. Both types are custom made for you, based on a test of your saliva. According to the FDA, bioidentical hormones may be a riskier treatment option than standard hormone therapy, and there is no proof that they are any more effective.

Mind/Body Approaches

Because many of the symptoms associated with menopause are temporary, you can make changes to your daily routine to aid in treatment.

Try yoga

Shown to reduce hot flashes, yoga uses controlled breathing, posing, and meditation.

Decrease vaginal discomfort

Water-based vaginal lubricants, such as K-Y or Astroglide, or moisturizers, such as Replens and Vagisil, can help with this symptom. Doctors also recommend that you stay sexually active during this period. For more severe dryness, your doctor may recommend vaginal estrogen in the form of a cream, ring, or suppository.

Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles

Doing Kegel exercises can improve urinary continence. To do Kegel exercises, first locate the correct muscles that you want to contract. While urinating, try to stop the flow of urine. If you can do so, you’ve located the right muscles. Begin by contracting your pelvic floor muscles and holding the contraction for three seconds. Then relax. Repeat this cycle 10 times. Do Kegel exercises three times a day and gradually extend the time you keep your muscles contracted up to 10 seconds.

Visualization

Guided imagery or visualization therapy may be helpful in easing hot flashes. A study performed at Baylor University in the summer of 2010 found that by imagining a cool place, a woman will feel the cool of the visualized place rather than the heat of a hot flash.

Consider other treatments

Acupressure, acupuncture, massage, meditation, music therapy, and relaxation therapy can all help relieve symptoms associated with menopause.