Fable: Menopausal Hormone Remedy Is Harmful
“Science isn’t black and white; it’s filled with grey areas the place extra examine is required,” Bazella says. “That’s why one thing seen as a delusion as we speak might need been thought-about new data previously — it’s all a part of the method of studying and discovery.”
“In reevaluating this examine, affected person ages when MHT was initiated and the hormone formulation used, we now perceive that MHT’s dangers and advantages rely closely on timing of initiation, particular person well being profile, and the remedy formulation,” Bazella says.
“I routinely advocate MHT — however not universally,” Bazella says. “It isn’t a one-size-fits-all resolution … however with considerate analysis, life like expectations, and ongoing monitoring, it may be a robust software.”
If in case you have questions on MHT, Bazella recommends speaking to your physician, as a way to make a shared, knowledgeable choice based mostly in your particular scenario.
Fable: Hormone Remedy Is the Solely Solution to Handle Signs
In case you’re not a candidate for MHT or really feel that it isn’t best for you, there are many different methods to search out reduction. “We will tailor the method to the individual’s signs, medical points, targets, preferences, and philosophy,” Dr. Noble says.
Examples of different remedies embrace the next:
- Nonhormonal drugs, akin to neurokinin antagonists (like fezolinetant), antidepressants, gabapentin, and oxybutynin.
- Cognitive behavioral remedy, which can assist with signs akin to temper adjustments, sleep disturbances, and the impression of scorching flashes and night time sweats on high quality of life.
- Vaginal remedies, together with nonhormonal lubricants and moisturizers to alleviate dryness and discomfort.
- Acupuncture and integrative therapies, which can supply symptom reduction for some girls, particularly when mixed with different approaches.
Moreover, Bazella says {that a} wholesome life-style — together with common train, a balanced eating regimen, stress discount, not smoking, and good sleep hygiene — is essential, even when these habits could in a roundabout way cut back signs. “All menopausal therapies ought to be along with these fundamentals of well being promotion,” she says.
Fable: There’s No (Good) Intercourse After Menopause
Hormonal adjustments could make intimacy really feel totally different, however you may nonetheless have a vibrant intercourse life throughout and after menopause, Kothary says.
“As estrogen ranges drop, some girls expertise vaginal dryness or discomfort that may make intercourse much less pleasant,” Kothary says. “The excellent news is that these signs are extremely treatable with moisturizers, lubricants, and low-dose vaginal estrogen that restore consolation and elasticity.”
Rahman additionally suggests further elements — together with drugs, underlying well being situations, and stress — that could be affecting your intercourse life and relationships. “For instance, treating despair and anxiousness may help your sexual operate, however some remedies, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, could make it worse [by lowering libido], so it is very important perceive all of this and get assist from a sexual medication skilled.”
Open communication along with your accomplice can be important, Rahman says, noting that intercourse remedy could be a useful software. “Menopause can positively [affect intimacy], however it’s also a time for redefining your life and asking for what you need,” she says.
The Takeaway
- Menopause is a pure transition that normally begins in midlife because the ovaries cease producing reproductive hormones, akin to estrogen and progesterone.
- Everybody’s expertise is totally different, however many ladies expertise an array of signs, akin to scorching flashes, night time sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep difficulties.
- If signs are bothering you, speak to your healthcare supplier about your choices, which can embrace a mixture of life-style adjustments, medical remedies, and complementary interventions akin to remedy or acupuncture.
