Menopause Treatment

Menopause treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve a woman's quality of life during this transitional period. The approach to treatment varies based on individual symptoms, overall health, and personal preferences. Below are common strategies and treatments used to manage menopause symptoms:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall health. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is essential for bone health.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps manage weight, improve mood, and support cardiovascular health. Weight-bearing exercises are beneficial for bone density.
• Stress Management: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage emotional well-being.

Bio-Identical Hormones

Bio-identical hormones are substances that have the same chemical structure as hormones naturally produced in the body. In the context of menopause, bio-identical hormones are often used as a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to address symptoms associated with declining hormone levels, particularly estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. These hormones are derived from plant sources (such as soy) and are designed to be structurally identical to those produced by the ovaries.

Bio-identical hormone therapy aims to supplement reduced hormone levels during menopause to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, headaches, and vaginal dryness.

Types of Bio-Identical Hormones

• Bio-identical Estrogen: Typically derived from plant sources such as soy or yam, bio-identical estrogen is available in various forms, including creams, gels, patches, and pills.
• Bio-identical Progesterone: Derived from plant sources such as chasteberry, bio-identical progesterone is available in creams, capsules, or other formulations.
• Bio-identical Testosterone: Derived from plant sources and used to restore libido and muscle strength while preventing osteoporosis.

Customized Compounding

Bio-identical hormones are often compounded on an individualized basis, allowing for tailored hormone combinations and dosages based on specific patient needs. This customization enables the therapy to be adjusted according to the unique hormonal balance of each woman. The medications are prepared by specialized compounding pharmacies that adhere to ISO-certified quality control standards.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT involves the use of estrogen, progesterone, or a combination of both, as well as testosterone supplementation, to compensate for declining hormone levels during menopause. This can effectively relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.

The decision to use HRT should be personalized and made in consultation with a specialized gynecologist. The benefits and risks should be carefully evaluated.

Non-Hormonal Medications

• Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications: Certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can help manage mood swings and hot flashes.
• Gabapentin: Originally used to treat seizures, gabapentin can be effective in reducing hot flashes.

Vaginal Estrogen Therapy

For women experiencing vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse, localized estrogen therapy (in the form of creams, rings, or tablets) can be applied directly to vaginal tissues to relieve symptoms.

Medications for Osteoporosis

Drugs such as bisphosphonates can be prescribed to help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Some women find relief from menopause symptoms through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal supplements (e.g., black cohosh, soy), and mind-body practices. It is important to discuss these options with your gynecologist.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular check-ups are vital for monitoring overall health, addressing specific concerns, and adjusting treatment plans as needed.

Individualized Care

It is essential for women to discuss their symptoms, concerns, and treatment options with their gynecologist. The choice of treatment depends on medical history, personal preferences, and specific symptoms. Treatment plans may be adjusted over time to accommodate changing needs during and after menopause. Regular health screenings, including bone density tests and cardiovascular assessments, are also crucial for maintaining overall health during and after menopause.

Women undergoing any form of hormone replacement therapy, including bio-identical hormones, should be regularly monitored by their gynecologist. Routine check-ups help assess treatment effectiveness and manage potential hormonal imbalances.

As with any medical treatment, the decision to use bio-identical hormones should be made in consultation with a specialized gynecologist.

Dr. Maria Oikonomou specializes in the treatment of hormonal disorders and menopause, having trained at leading centers in the UK, including Chelsea & Westminster Hospital and Imperial College London.