All women are different, and each woman's perimenopause symptoms are different. This is an especially important time to work with a doctor you trust and in whom you can talk to easily and confidentially. You and your doctor are partners in caring for your health, both viewing perimenopause not as a disease, but as a transition from one phase of life into another.
Should you look into other complementary therapies, it is important to let your care provider know. If you do choose alternative treatment, go into it with your physician's opinion as part of your overall decision making process.
Key Points
- There are both OTC and prescription hormone treatment options for perimenopause.
- Gabapentin may be able to help with hot flashes.
- Always consult your doctor before trying any OTC or alternative treatments.
Medical Treatment For Perimenopause Symptoms
Be wary of over-the-counter treatments that will supposedly regulate your hormones. While they may be quite helpful, they should be monitored, as they can create an imbalance on their own. Seek a doctor's advice before taking any OTC hormone treatments.
If you want to explore hormone therapy that's prescribed rather than OTC, there are options. Systemic estrogen therapy is one of the many treatments you can go with for your perimenopause. This treatment can be taken via pill, spray, gel, cream, or a skin patch. It will be paired with a progestin treatment if you still have your uterus. Vaginal estrogen is another option. This estrogen is administered directly to the vagina using a ring, vaginal tablet, or cream.
If you suffer from hot flashes, a treatment called Gabapentin can help. While this medication is primarily used in the treatment of seizures, it has been known to reduce hot flashes in perimenopausal women. Antidepressants are another treatment option for hot flashes.
A couple of alternative treatments include black cohosh and phytoestrogens. Black cohosh is used by some women to treat hot flashes. It's important to note, however, that researchers are currently uncertain of the risks of using black cohosh. Some studies have found a dangerous link between black cohosh use and liver damage, as well as a possible increased risk of breast cancer. Other studies have found no such links.
Phytoestrogens can be found in soybeans, legumes, red clover, flaxseed, whole grains, and some fruits and vegetables. Some studies suggest that phytoestrogens may be beneficial in relieving perimenopausal symptoms and reducing breast cancer risk, but doctors are still uncertain.
Get second opinions on anything you are considering as treatment for perimenopause. You should always be as informed as possible regarding your body and your health.
Perimenopause Information
The information in this article should not be taken as professional medical advice. Moms Who Think is not responsible for the consequences that may arise as a result of your decisions regarding medical matters. It is your responsibility to do your own research, and to verify any information you read on the Internet. Always consult a medical professional before making any health decisions.