The first line treatment for managing symptoms of menopause depends on the severity of symptoms and if there are any contraindications to certain therapies. Some of the most common options for first line management include: Lifestyle changes: - Get regular exercise and stay active - This can help manage hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Aim for 30 minutes per day of moderate activity. - Practice stress reduction techniques - Things like yoga, meditation, deep breathing can help with anxiety, irritability and depression. - Avoid triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol and heat if they make your symptoms worse. - Stay cool - Use fans, air conditioning, lightweight clothing layers. - Get enough sleep - Try to get 7-9 hours per night and take naps if needed. Good sleep hygiene helps mood and energy levels. Vaginal estrogen: - Low-dose, local vaginal estrogen is often first line for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) to relieve symptoms like vaginal dryness, irritation, burning and painful intercourse. It comes as a cream, tablet or ring inserted into the vagina. Over-the-counter options: - Lubricants and moisturizers provide some relief for vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. - Vitamin E oral supplements or creams may help hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. Prescription medications: - Low-dose antidepressants like fluoxetine, paroxetine, citalopram can reduce hot flashes. They also help with mood swings, irritability and trouble sleeping. - Gabapentin is an anti-seizure medication also used for hot flashes and improving sleep. - Low-dose oral estrogen tablets, patches and gels can effectively treat hot flashes, night sweats, GSM and prevent bone loss, but should not be used long term due to health risks. It may be appropriate for women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset if benefits outweigh risks. - Progesterone creams can provide relief for hot flashes, night sweats and low mood in some women. - Clonidine may reduce severity of hot flashes. Some women may choose to complement the above therapies with professional support through counseling or working with a menopause specialist to optimize symptom management during this transition. The doctors at The Balance - Hormone Medical Clinic specialize in naturopathic and integrative medical approaches to finding the right balance of lifestyle adjustments and safe, effective treatments tailored to each woman's menopause symptoms and health history. We empower women to take charge of their health during midlife transitions with compassionate care. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your menopause concerns and explore options for restoring your vitality. In summary, while menopause symptoms can significantly disrupt quality of life for some women, there are many effective options to provide relief, especially when treatments are individualized based on each woman's needs and risks. Being proactive with both self-care strategies and seeking professional support can help women successfully navigate “the change".
