A Holistic Approach

Menopause is usually used as a term for the entire cycle of three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause. Most people will enter in perimenopause in their 40s and after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle, they will be in post-menopause. Newer treatments have been introduced in the UK to lower the risk of any health issues and alleviate the multiple symptoms that are associated with menopause. Most people will create any number of solutions for mitigating menopause symptoms that fits their needs specifically. This is an overview of treatment options and there is more detailed information in subsequent articles.  It is essential to speak with a licensed healthcare provider when considering any type of treatment for menopause symptoms.

Treating Hot Flushes

Hot flushes (also called flashes), chills and night sweats are amongst the most common symptoms. The most well-known form of treatment against hot flushes is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the British Menopause Society, recommend menopausal hormone therapy to combat these symptoms. It is important to discuss with your doctor if this is an option for you. There are prescription hormone therapy options approved by the NHS and are referred to as systemic oestrogen therapy and oestrogen-progestogen therapy. There is much more about this topic in a subsequent article.

Another newer treatment against hot flashes are drugs that are usually used for depression. These are used for people who are not diagnosed with depression and are called SSRIs or selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors. Other drugs that have proven helpful for hot flashes are those used for epilepsy and nerve pain, and certain drugs for high blood pressure. There is evidence that suggests these can help alleviate the discomfort brought on by a hot-flush. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider about options to mitigate hot flashes.

Under the guidance of your doctor, aside from options using medications, there are other treatment options to compliment or replace HRT.

Mental Health

Most women and people going through menopause will feel the impact on their mental wellbeing. Due to this, there are a number of options to support one’s mental health during this time. One such treatment gaining popularity is cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of psychological therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. It has been found to be effective in managing menopause symptoms, particularly hot flashes and night sweats. CBT helps people develop coping strategies and change their perception of these symptoms, leading to a reduction in their frequency and severity. In addition to CBT, talk therapy has offered support to many people during their menopause journey. There are additional resources in the resource hub that provides more information and options.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to these treatments, lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing menopause symptoms. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation have been found to alleviate hot flashes, improve sleep quality, and boost overall well-being. People in the UK are increasingly embracing these holistic approaches to complement medical treatments.

Many people also find relief from including meditation into their daily routine. While there are countless varieties of meditation, finding the one that works for you in crucial. The main and common goal of meditation is to detach from the stressful thoughts that may accompany menopause symptoms.

Acupuncture

A new type of treatment option is acupuncture for menopause symptoms. This ancient practice originating in China involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. A study conducted by the British Medical Journal conducted in 2018 did show that acupuncture may actually ease troublesome menopausal symptoms. This and other studies have shown that acupuncture can provide relief from hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings associated with menopause. While it is considered a safe and non-hormonal alternative for people who cannot or choose not to use hormone therapy.

What Works for You

It is important to note that menopause is a highly individual experience, and what works for one woman may not work for another. Therefore, it is crucial for women to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable treatment options based on their specific needs and medical history.

Menopause symptoms and their treatments in the UK are topics of great significance for people entering this phase of their lives. While HRT has traditionally been the primary treatment option, alternatives such as CBT and acupuncture are gaining popularity due to their effectiveness and safety. Additionally, lifestyle changes can also contribute to symptom management. Ultimately, the goal is to empower women to navigate this transformative period with confidence and improved quality of life.