At-Home Menopause Care Strategies For Symptomatic Relief

Menopause refers to the cessation of menstrual periods. While some people sail through their menopausal years with barely a symptom, others are debilitated and surprised at the intensity of their symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often prescribed to ease menopausal symptoms, however, it can cause side effects and may not be suitable for people with a personal or family history of breast, uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer. Here are some at-home menopause care tips to help relieve your symptoms; if your symptoms are severe or prevent you from performing your daily activities, see your healthcare provider. 

Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids which may help relieve hot flashes and night sweats. Omega-3 fatty acids may also play an important role in mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression, which are not uncommon in people going through menopause. Fish oil supplements may also help ease other menopausal symptoms such as insomnia, itchy skin, vaginal dryness, and joint pain. It is important to note that certain types of fish oil supplements can cause digestive problems. If you get an upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, or abdominal pain from taking fish oil supplements, then you can get your omega-3 fatty acids by eating foods like salmon and tuna. 

Soy Isoflavones

Increasing your intake of foods containing soy isoflavones is another at-home menopause care intervention that may help relieve your symptoms. People who consume soy isoflavones such as tofu, soy milk, and edamame may have fewer episodes of night sweats and hot flashes.

It is also thought that increasing soy intake may help prevent post-menopausal breast cancer in some people. However, because soy can mimic the effects of the hormone estrogen and the most common type of breast cancer is thought to be fueled by estrogen, people who have had breast cancer or who have a strong family history of breast cancer should talk to their healthcare providers before increasing their soy intake. Because of this, eating foods that mimic the effects of estrogen such as soy, may not be appropriate for people at high risk for breast cancer.

If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, consider these at-home menopause care strategies to help you feel better. There are numerous interventions to help people cope with menopausal symptoms so that they do not have to suffer through this natural phase of their life. 

Contact a local doctor to learn more about menopause treatment.


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