Non-hormonal treatments of menopausal symptoms

Many women with menopausal symptoms will consult their GP for help and advice. These symptoms can be varied and include vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes and night sweats), urogenital dryness or irritation, muscle aches, poor sleep and low mood. For some women, explanation and reassurance may be all that is required; others may request treatment with hormone-replacement therapy (HRT). However, some women requesting treatment will not be able to take HRT, due to co-existing medical problems such as breast cancer or may wish to avoid hormones for other reasons. This article will describe some of the non-HRT treatments that may be offered either instead of or alongside systemic HRT.