Menopause Relief

For women approaching or going through menopause, relief of symptoms often involves lifestyle changes (such as exercising more), medications (such as antidepressants), and other types of treatment. This article contains suggestions for finding menopause relief from a variety of symptoms seen with menopause.

 

Menopause Relief: An Introduction

As you approach menopause, you may have menopause symptoms caused by the changes your body is going through. The following sections provide a few ways to help alleviate your symptoms and provide some menopause relief.
 

Menopause Relief From Hot Flashes

Hot flashes can be triggered by:
 
  • A hot environment
  • Eating or drinking hot or spicy foods and beverages
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Stress.
     
Try your best to avoid these triggers. Also, dress in layers and keep a fan in your home or workplace so you can cool down as needed. Regular exercise might also bring relief from hot flashes and other symptoms. You can ask your doctor about taking an antidepressant medicine. There is evidence that certain antidepressants can be helpful for some women with hot flashes.
 

Menopause Relief From Vaginal Dryness

To help relieve vaginal dryness, you can try using an over-the-counter vaginal lubricant. There are also prescription estrogen replacement creams that your doctor may prescribe. If you have spotting or bleeding while using estrogen creams, be sure to notify your healthcare provider.
 

Menopause Relief From Problems Sleeping

One of the best ways to get a good night's sleep is to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. However, avoid a lot of strenuous exercise close to bedtime -- this can make it harder to fall asleep. Also avoid alcohol, caffeine, large meals, and working right before bedtime. You might want to drink something warm before bedtime, such as herbal tea or warm milk. Try to keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature -- many people find it difficult to sleep if it's too hot or too cold. Also, avoid napping during the day, and try to go to bed and get up at the same times every day.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD