MidLife
Alternatives to hormone replacement therapy
Hormone replacement therapy is not the right thing for every woman. When hormone replacement therapy is not suitable, there are other medications and changes in lifestyle that can bring similar results.
For women with high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels, other medications specific to treating these conditions may be prescribed. Drugs that reduce the thinning of bones – other than HRT- are available, like calcitonin, biphosphinates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM's) and calcium supplements.
Lifestyle changes also have a beneficial effect. Careful attention to diet, exercise, stress reduction, and ridding yourself of unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol use – will no doubt positively impact your health.
Should you wish to explore non-traditional types of treatment, be sure to discuss all issues concerning treatments and therapies with your health care provider. Competent health care management requires knowledge of both conventional and alternative therapies for the practitioner to have a complete picture of your treatment plan.
A number of herbs have been promoted to ease menopausal symptoms. These include chamomile, black cohosh, wild yam root, dong quai, ginseng, and licorice root – to name a few. A warning to women – herbal remedies may cause side effects. Always consult with your health care provider before taking herbs.
The decision to use complementary and alternative treatments is an important one. Before selecting an alternative therapy, consider the safety and effectiveness of the therapy or treatment, the expertise and qualifications of the health care practitioner, and the quality of the service delivery. These topics should be considered when selecting any practitioner or therapy.
