Khaberni - Many women experience varying health issues during menopause, most notably hot flashes and night sweats, which can affect daily life. Given the variety of treatment options, a common question arises about the effectiveness of these treatments and their potential risks.
According to the Women's Health Portal of the Federal Institute of Public Health in Germany, the treatments available for menopause troubles fall into two main categories: hormonal treatments and herbal remedies.
Hormonal Treatment
Hormonal products are the most effective option for alleviating menopause symptoms, as they work to compensate for the decrease in estrogen that occurs during this stage, and are often used in conjunction with progesterone to reduce the thickening of the uterine lining.
The German portal indicates that the effectiveness of hormonal treatment is supported by strong evidence based on high-quality scientific studies, making it the most reliable option, especially in cases where the symptoms are severe. These products are only available by prescription and under specialist supervision.
Herbal Treatments
Conversely, herbal treatments are available without a prescription and often contain plant extracts such as black cohosh or rhubarb. Despite some women turning to them, their effectiveness remains limited, and they are not recommended for severe cases.
Moreover, research on their long-term effects is still less extensive compared to hormonal treatment, prompting experts to recommend using them for short periods not exceeding a few months, with the necessity of consulting a doctor even if they are available without a prescription.
Risks and Cautions
Despite the effectiveness of hormonal treatment, it is not without risks, as it may increase the likelihood of blood clots, in addition to an increased long-term risk of breast cancer, which necessitates using the lowest possible dose.
Medical guidelines suggest that introducing hormones into the body through the skin, using patches, gels, or sprays, may reduce the risk of clots compared to taking pills.
Customized Treatment for Each Case
When resorting to hormonal treatment, doctors advise gradually reducing the dosage annually in consultation with the doctor, with an emphasis that the treatment duration should not exceed 5 years.
The German Women's Health Portal concludes that the optimal solution lies in designing the treatment according to the needs of each individual woman, as menopause symptoms and the body's response to treatment vary from one woman to another.
