Thomas Jefferson’s menopause recommendations
To manage vasomotor symptoms, researchers from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia recommend “lifestyle changes in all women.”
Lifestyle changes to help manage hot flashes and night sweats include the following.
- Regulation of core body temperature
- Relaxation techniques
- Regular physical activity
- Weight loss
- Smoking cessation
What about herbals?
The authors say the role of herbal remedies in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms is unclear because the results of studies are inconsistent and inconclusive.
Nevertheless, soy isoflavones, red clover isoflavones, black cohosh, and vitamin E “may be considered in women with mild symptoms that are not controlled by lifestyle changes alone.” These herbals appear to be safe when used for short durations (6 months).
The bottom line?
The authors concluded, “optimum management of vasomotor symptoms includes lifestyle changes in all women” They would reserve hormone replacement therapy for women with moderate-to-severe symptoms.
“Less effective herbal remedies or nonhormonal therapies may be appropriate in certain women, such as those with mild symptoms or those who cannot or will not take hormone replacement therapy.
5/25/08 23:50 JR
