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Natural and expected changes in the reproductive and endocrine systems cause menopause. As the egg supply ages, the body begins to ovulate less, causing hormone levels to vary irregularly. Eventually, estrogen and progesterone levels decline enough that the menstrual cycle stops.
Menopause can be caused prematurely by surgical removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy) during a hysterectomy or by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvis.
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This information is not intended to replace the advice of a
doctor. If you have any questions or concerns about a health
condition, contact your doctor.
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There are several ways to reduce the symptoms of menopause and lessen discomfort:
- Eat healthful foods
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol
- Manage stress
- Reduce your exposure to the sun — sunburn will aggravate your hot flashes
- Avoid synthetic clothing, because it traps perspiration
- If you have night sweats, use only 100% cotton bedding
- Avoid clothing with high necks and long sleeves
- Keep cold drinks handy.
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If managing your symptoms isn’t enough, there are some treatment options to choose from:
- Blood pressure medication to reduce hot flashes
- Black cohosh, soy, certain antidepressants or low-dose hormone therapy to reduce hot flashes or mood swings
- Nonhormonal medication for heavy menstrual bleeding
- Low-dose estrogen-and-progestin birth control pills (for hormone therapy before menopause)
- Low-dose hormone replacement therapy (HRT) (for hormone therapy after menopause).
Talk to your physician about what treatment is best for you.
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For more information on menopause, login
to WebMD and visit the Menopause Condition Center.
Other helpful resources include:
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