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Three Paths To Menopause Relief - Which One Is Right For You?

Written by Dawn M. Olsen

Topic: Women's IssuesPublished October 26, 2007

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We've talked about all the various 35 menopausal symptoms that you may experience, as well as the health implications of various treatments. Having said that, let's face it -most women don't need to know about treating each and every possible symptom, they want to know how to treat the symptoms they are experiencing RIGHT NOW. You may want to simply know how to get a good night's sleep. You may need those irritating hot flashes to simply be gone by the time you get on that plane for your vacation. Or, you might need a solution for that incessant vaginal dryness before you go to that convention. Either way, your most urgent need is probably to simply treat the handful of menopause symptoms that are screwing up your days, right? Fair enough. Today, let's discuss finding the approach to relieving some of those symptoms that's right for YOU.
nOptions for Treating Your Menopause Symptoms : Three Different Approaches
nOne of the best strategies (in my opinion) of approaching the treatment of the menopause symptoms you are experiencing is to simply start with the least risky approaches, and go on to riskier treatment methods only if necessary. Unless you're in a truly desperate situation (i.e. your symptoms have so overwhelmed you that even functioning day-to-day is becoming nearly impossible), it's much more prudent to try the lowest level, safest possible approach first, moving up to the net level only if that fails. The levels of treatment (as we're discussing here) are:
n1. Lifestyle Changes
n2. Alternative Therapies
n3. Drugs & Surgical Procedures
nChanging your Lifestyle
nFor many women, overcoming menopausal symptoms is simply a matter of making changes to the way they eat, exercise, or go about life. This approach involves the least amount of risk, as most of the lifestyle changes are simply common sense. If hot flashes are ruining your day, try dressing in layers. In addition, eating say (such as tofu, etc.) can decrease the frequency and severity of hot flashes. There is a plethora of information out there regarding the effect changes in your diet can have on your menopause symptoms. The good news is that you CAN take many steps to reduce your symptoms without taking hormones:

- Dress lightly and in layersnn-Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods nn- Practice slow, deep breathing whenever a hot flash starts to come on (try taking six breaths per minute) nnn- See an acupuncturist nn- Use relaxation techniques like yoga, tai chi, or meditation nn- Eat soy foods nn- Remain sexually active to preserve elasticity of your vagina nn- Perform Kegel exercises daily to strengthen the muscles of your vagina and pelvisnnn- Use water-based lubricants during sexual intercourse

nnAlternative Therapies
nWhen the natural (and safest) approaches don't work, then it might be time to take it up a notch. This second level approach to treating your menopause symptoms involves using herbs and other dietary supplements to help alleviate your symptoms, and even a possible visit to an acupuncturist (don't fret ladies - even my dog has had acupuncture - it works wonders!)
nWhile this approach still involves very little risk when taken carefully, you still need to approach as an educated consumer. A few of the herbs to consider:

- Black cohosh ( cimicifuga racemosa) This is a good estrogenic herb that acts specifically on the uterus to reduce cramps and congestion. It is also good for relieving hot flashes. It may also help to reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure.nnn- Chaste tree ( Vilex agnus- castus) This herb is a hormone balancer that is used to alleviate depression at menopause. nnn- Damiana ( Turnera diffuse) Damiana is a pituitary regulator and antidepressant. It is also an aphrodisiac and is of benefit for sexual difficulties. Not be taken too frequently!nn- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Dandelion is a wonderful herb for the liver.nn- Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) High in natural plant estrogens called phytosterols and helps to reduce the symptoms of estrogen deficiency.nnn- False unicorn root (Chamaelirium luteum) An estrogen regulator. It has a direct action on the uterus and ovaries and is considered to be a corrective herb for women. nnn- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) This herb improves brain function, circulation, and oxygenation of all body cells. It is helpful for symptoms of fatigue, memory problems, and depression.nThat's just a handful of the dozens of available herbal treatments. There are dozens available.nnnDrugs & Surgery - the Last Choice
nWhile the importance of lifestyle and natural treatments have gained much ground over the past two decades, there are still some women whose symptoms are so severe that they simply feel they MUST go to this third (and most risky) level of treatment. this approach to treatment involves drugs (hormones and other types of pharmacological therapies) and both major and minor surgical procedures. Unfortunately, side effects are unavoidable with this approach, and they can range from only mildly irritating to devastating to your lifestyle. having said that, if your symptoms are sever enough, or you simply do not trust (or have time for) a more natural approach, then the side effects may be well worth it to you. Keep in mind that while the side effects and risk may be well worth it toy you, you simply must educate yourself exactly what using these synthetic approaches to treatment can do to your future health.

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About the Author

Dawn M. Olsen is an Advocate for Better Women’s Health through Education. Find out more about how to approach your menopause symptoms relief and life post menopause.

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