Delusion: Menopausal Hormone Remedy Is Harmful
“Science isn’t black and white; it’s filled with grey areas the place extra research is required,” Bazella says. “That’s why one thing seen as a fantasy at this time may need been thought of new information prior to now — it’s all a part of the method of studying and discovery.”
“In reevaluating this research, taking a look at 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 suggest MHT — however not universally,” Bazella says. “It isn’t a one-size-fits-all resolution … however with considerate analysis, reasonable expectations, and ongoing monitoring, it may be a robust device.”
When you have questions on MHT, Bazella recommends speaking to your physician, so to make a shared, knowledgeable resolution based mostly in your particular state of affairs.
Delusion: Hormone Remedy Is the Solely Strategy 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 seek out reduction. “We will tailor the strategy to the individual’s signs, medical points, targets, preferences, and philosophy,” Dr. Noble says.
Examples of different remedies embrace the next:
- Nonhormonal medicines, equivalent to neurokinin antagonists (like fezolinetant), antidepressants, gabapentin, and oxybutynin.
- Cognitive behavioral remedy, which can assist with signs equivalent to temper adjustments, sleep disturbances, and the impression of sizzling flashes and evening 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 provide symptom reduction for some girls, particularly when mixed with different approaches.
Moreover, Bazella says {that a} wholesome way of life — together with common train, a balanced food regimen, stress discount, not smoking, and good sleep hygiene — is essential, even when these habits could circuitously scale back signs. “All menopausal therapies needs to be along with these fundamentals of well being promotion,” she says.
Delusion: There’s No (Good) Intercourse After Menopause
Hormonal adjustments could make intimacy really feel completely 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 taking a look at extra components — together with medicines, underlying well being situations, and stress — that could be affecting your intercourse life and relationships. “For instance, treating melancholy and nervousness may also help your sexual perform, however some remedies, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, could make it worse [by lowering libido], so you will need to perceive all of this and get assist from a sexual medication skilled.”
Open communication together with your associate can also be important, Rahman says, noting that intercourse remedy could be a useful device. “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, equivalent to estrogen and progesterone.
- Everybody’s expertise is completely different, however many ladies expertise an array of signs, equivalent to sizzling flashes, evening sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep difficulties.
- If signs are bothering you, discuss to your healthcare supplier about your choices, which can embrace a mixture of way of life adjustments, medical remedies, and complementary interventions equivalent to remedy or acupuncture.
