Naturopathic treatments and bioidentical hormone therapy can be effective options for managing the symptoms of menopause. In my patient population, I often see dramatic improvements in quality of life, vitality, mood, energy, libido, hot flashes and night sweats and vaginal complaints with the use of herbal and/or BHRT therapies for menopause.
Naturopathic treatments may include dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications. For example, incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet, reducing alcohol and caffeine consumption, and getting regular exercise can all help to reduce menopause symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications such as stress reduction techniques like meditation or yoga, and pelvic floor exercises can also be helpful for managing menopause symptoms. Naturopathic doctors can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and preferences.
Supplements that may another useful tool for menopausal symptoms include black cohosh, dong quai, rhapontic rhubarb, St Johns wort and even hops. These supplements have been shown to help reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and other symptoms of menopause.
Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) is another option for managing menopause symptoms, which is type of hormone replacement therapy that uses hormones that are chemically identical to the hormones naturally produced in the body. This is in contrast to traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which uses synthetic hormones that are similar to, but not identical to, the body’s natural hormones.
BHRT can be an effective option for managing menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. Research also suggests BHRT can be useful in prevention of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and dementia in women. BHRT can be administered in several forms, including pills, patches, rings, troche, creams, and injections.
One of the benefits of BHRT is that the hormones used are tailored to each individual based on their unique hormone levels and symptoms. This personalized approach can help to ensure that the therapy is effective and well-tolerated.
BHRT is not without risks, however. Like any hormone therapy, there is a risk of side effects, including breast tenderness, bloating, and headaches. Depending on the form, dose and duration of therapy, there is also a small risk of more serious side effects, such as blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancer. For this reason, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of BHRT, and to have regular monitoring if you decide to pursue this treatment option.
If you are interested in BHRT, it’s important to talk to a qualified healthcare provider who can help you determine if it’s a safe and appropriate option for you. They can also help you determine the appropriate dosage and form of BHRT.