Treatment of menopause in women: main drugs, herbs

The term "menopause" in Greek means "step of the ladder". This is a truly new stage in a woman's life, when the reproductive function gradually fades, the body is rebuilt, starting with the parts of the brain - the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, responsible for the flow of sex hormones into the blood, the ovaries reduce the production of estrogens. It is the reduction of these hormones that leads to a deterioration in the woman's well-being: depression and irritability, frequent headaches, hot flashes and increased sweating, insomnia, cardiac arrhythmia occur. During this period, existing diseases may also worsen. Often, a woman is unable to cope with such problems on her own, and this is not necessary, because modern medicine has a sufficient arsenal of means for treating menopause in women.

Methods of treating menopause

To make a woman's life easier during the difficult climacteric period, to make it full, cheerful and joyful, there are such methods of treating menopause as hormone replacement therapy, homeopathic treatment, and treatment with folk remedies. Treatment regimens are selected by the doctor individually, taking into account the patient's age, the severity of her physical condition, and the phase of menopause.

Treatment of menopause with hormones

Treatment of menopause with hormones is the most effective method of eliminating climacteric symptoms. This treatment is called hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and consists of compensating the body for the deficiency of such sex hormones as estradiol and progesterone. In early, premature menopause, HRT is the main treatment, in other cases it is prescribed to prevent the consequences of menopause, reduces hot flashes, dry skin and mucous membranes. In addition, HRT has proven itself in the prevention of such a formidable and dangerous disease as osteoporosis, since it activates metabolic processes in bone tissue and increases their strength. Treatment with hormones reduces the risk of developing vascular atherosclerosis, since it helps to reduce cholesterol and normalize lipids in the blood. Side effects of hormones include stimulation of cell growth in the body, including malignant ones.

Treatment of menopause without hormones

With all the unpleasant factors that accompany menopause, one should not forget that this is not a disease, but a special condition that can often be overcome without the use of drugs and hormones. To treat menopause without hormones, there is a large arsenal of folk recipes and homeopathic remedies, vitamins. A doctor will help you choose the necessary method, he will also determine whether non-drug treatment is sufficient or will prescribe it in combination with pharmaceutical drugs.

Treatment of menopause with folk remedies

In the treatment of menopause with folk remedies, phytotherapy, bee products (bee products), leech therapy, juice therapy, etc. are widely used. In phytotherapy, herbs rich in estrogens are used to treat menopause. Herbs contain much less of them than hormonal drugs, so the effect is softer and more gradual. Herbs containing phytoestrogen include:

• soy; rich in isoflavones daidzein, genistein, glycitein. When they enter the intestines, they break down into sugar and a component that has an estrogenic effect;
• red clover, alfalfa; contains isoflavones formononetin, biochanin-A, and phytoestrogen coumestrol, which reduce climacteric symptoms and improve well-being;
• flax; the seeds contain lignans, their actions are similar to isoflavones;
• licorice; its root contains the isoflovone glabridin;
• red grapes; the berries and wine made from them contain resveratrol, which is a powerful antioxidant;
• hops; prenylnaringenin, which is part of the plant, has a strong estrogenic effect on the female body, it should be used with great caution.

Other herbs are also used to treat menopause. For example, dill can help reduce hot flashes and normalize sleep. To use it, you need to make dill water: place three tablespoons of dried dill seeds in a thermos, pour in two glasses of water, and leave for an hour. Add boiled water to the resulting infusion to make a liter. Take 100 ml 3-4 times a day half an hour after eating, the course of treatment is at least a month. Peony tincture has a similar effect. You can buy it at a pharmacy. Drink 20 drops of the tincture 2-3 times a day for three weeks 20 minutes before eating.

It is difficult to overestimate the effect of fresh vegetables on the body, and especially juices from them. Juices contain micro- and macroelements, vitamins, biologically active substances. With their help, the body is cleansed of toxins and slags, the cardiovascular system is strengthened, and blood pressure is normalized. Cucumber juice restores the acid-base balance of the body, is a diuretic. Beetroot juice is good for the production of red blood cells in the body, increases iron. Carrot juice contains carotene, which, when it enters the human body, turns into vitamin A, as well as iron, copper, iodine, cobalt, essential oils, etc. It is useful for everyone, including women during menopause, because it restores mineral metabolism in bone tissue.

Beekeeping products have long taken a worthy place in the treatment of many diseases, they are also successfully used to treat menopause. Bees give us not only honey, but also royal jelly, pollen, and bee bread. These beekeeping products can improve the condition of a woman's body, normalize sleep, the autonomic system, and relieve fatigue. Royal jelly is obtained during the reproduction of bees. You can buy it from beekeepers in the form of capsules, take two capsules in the morning and evening for at least two months. The period for collecting fresh royal jelly is short (May-July), so after its completion, you can use pollen and bee bread, mix 20g with honey and take for a long time until improvement occurs. These substances increase the synthesis of collagen, which is so lacking during menopause.

Treatment of menopause with leeches

Treatment with leeches - hirudotherapy is used to treat menopause in combination with other measures designed to reduce its symptoms and consequences. Leech saliva contains enzymes that have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, restoring blood circulation and hormonal balance. Up to 10 leeches are used per session, which are placed in the coccyx area. Such sessions are carried out at least 8 times, with five-day breaks between them. After a month, the treatment sessions are repeated according to the same scheme. To achieve a noticeable result, it is necessary to undergo 3 courses of treatment.

Treatment of menopause with herbs

Herbal treatment of menopause is aimed at reducing hot flashes and sweating, normalizing blood pressure, relieving nervous tension, and increasing the level of sex hormones. Phytoestrogens, whose task is to balance hormonal levels, were discussed above. The following herbs reduce hot flashes and improve sleep: lemon balm, thyme, marsh cudweed, dill, valerian root, hawthorn, motherwort, hyssop, etc. Teas are brewed, decoctions are made, tinctures are made both from individual plants and by mixing them. Here are some recipes:

• make a mixture of thyme, mint, blackberry leaves in equal doses, pour a tablespoon of the resulting mixture with two glasses of boiling water, let it stand for 30 minutes. Take half a glass 2 times a day for 20 days, after a 10-day break you can repeat;
• 1 teaspoon of medicinal hyssop is poured with a glass of boiling water and infused for 30 minutes, take half a glass 3 times a day before meals;
• a mixture of equal parts of motherwort, hawthorn flowers, immortelle, chamomile and pour boiling water (1 tablespoon per half liter), leave for 30 minutes before taking, daily dose - 1 glass.

Treatment of menopause with sage

In folk medicine, sage is often and deservedly used. In gynecology, it is widely used, including for the treatment of menopause. Treatment of menopause with sage is possible due to its unique components:

• flavonoids – increase the tone of blood vessels and capillaries;
• thiamine – normalizes metabolic processes in the body;
• tannin – hemostatic effect;
• Vitamin C – tonic;
• Vitamin PP – activates biological processes.

After a course of treatment lasting 10-15 days, women feel a decrease in hot flashes, sweating, and nervousness. Sage can be taken as juice from fresh leaves, as well as tea, and decoctions from several others:

• drink 2 tablespoons of fresh juice at one time 3 times a day;
• brew tea (half a tablespoon of herbs per glass of tea), you can drink 3 times a day;
• mix 3 parts sage with 1 part valerian, horsetail; pour 1 tablespoon of the resulting mixture with a glass of boiling water, let stand for half an hour, take 100g 2 times a day.

Homeopathic treatment for menopause

Homeopathic medicines are also used to treat menopause. Many people consider them to be herbal, but homeopathic medicines, in addition to herbs, also contain low levels of chemical elements. The purpose of homeopathy during menopause is to compensate for the lack of sex hormones, which gradually decrease with the fading of ovarian function, and this is an irreversible process. The basis of such medicines is synthetic analogues of female hormones. Widely used and effective means of reducing menopause symptoms include Estrovel, Feminal, Remens, Klimaktoplan, Klimased-Clinic, Inoklim, Enerlit-Klima, Klimadinon, Femikaps, Tibestan and many others. Thus, Estrovel contains nettle extract, soy, Cimicifuga racemosa and some other plants, as well as vitamins E and B. It is effective for the prevention of osteoporosis, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, and improves the blood formula. Feminal is based on red clover extract, a powerful isoflovone. Inoklin is made using soy extract; remens - sepia, black cohosh, Canadian sanguinaria. A homeopathic doctor will help you understand the many homeopathic preparations; knowing the patient's symptoms, he will prescribe a separate drug or a complex of several. Homeopathic remedies will help a woman stay cheerful, enjoy life and not fall out of her usual way of life during a very difficult period for her.

Treatment of artificial menopause

Artificial menopause occurs as a result of forced intervention in the functioning of the ovaries. Such a necessity arises in a number of gynecological diagnoses, when the ovaries or uterus are removed. When the ovaries are removed, the production of hormones suddenly stops, but when only the uterus is removed, their function fades gradually, since the uterine artery is tied off during the operation, there is a deficiency in the blood supply to the ovaries, they suffer. Most women experience artificial menopause much harder than natural menopause.

Treatment of artificial menopause is aimed at eliminating the accompanying symptoms. Of these, early and late symptoms can be distinguished. Early symptoms include:

• psychovegetative: frequent hot flashes, increased sweating, headaches, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, fear, etc.;
• gynecological: feeling of dryness and itching in the vagina;
• decreased mental capacity: problems with memorization, loss of curiosity about new things.

This period can last from one to five years. In the later stages of artificial menopause, symptoms appear:

• cardiovascular diseases: high blood pressure, vascular spasms, tachycardia;
• urological: frequent urge to urinate, cystitis, urinary incontinence;
• diseases of the musculoskeletal system (arthritis, arthrosis, osteoporosis);
• skin aging.

In the treatment of artificial menopause, the main thing is the use of hormone replacement therapy. Even if at first the symptoms of menopause are not very obvious, you should not refuse treatment with HRT, because its later manifestations will lead to much greater troubles and consequences.

Treatment of pathological menopause

Menopause does not always occur on time, proceeds smoothly or with minor deviations. There are cases of menopause at 35-40 years. Late and protracted menopause also brings many unpleasant moments in a woman's life: in addition to the above-mentioned disorders, more severe manifestations occur, such as heavy bleeding, the appearance of neoplasms, changes in the mammary glands (mastopathy, etc.), etc. This type of menopause is called pathological. Treatment of pathological menopause consists of a comprehensive and individual approach to each patient. For this, non-hormonal drug therapy, hormonal and non-drug therapy are used. Today, hormone replacement therapy is the most effective. Along with drug treatment, psychotherapy, homeopathy, herbal medicine, vitamins, physical therapy, hydrotherapy are prescribed, an active lifestyle and sports are recommended.

Treatment of hot flashes during menopause

Hormonal imbalance during menopause leads to disturbances in the thermoregulation of the woman's body, which occurs in the hypothalamus - a part of the brain. Lack of estrogens gives a false signal to the hypothalamus about thermal overheating, as a result of which the body lowers the temperature. Because of this, the heart begins to beat faster, the vessels expand, passing increased volumes of blood, the woman feels hot flashes. Moderate hot flashes cause mild discomfort, and frequent and long ones - spoil life, they must be dealt with. They resort to treating hot flashes during menopause if they cannot be relieved by following the following recommendations:

1. avoid being indoors or outdoors with high temperatures;
2. do not sit near open heat sources (sauna, fireplace, other heaters);
3. do not eat spicy foods;
4. do not drink strong alcoholic drinks or coffee;
5. no smoking;
6. do not wear synthetic clothing;
7. avoid stress and excessive physical exertion.

If following these tips does not reduce the intensity of hot flashes, you should consult a doctor and begin drug treatment. Depending on the severity of the condition, the characteristics of the body and the presence of concomitant diseases, the doctor will prescribe treatment. This may be hormone replacement therapy, with the help of which the estrogen deficiency is replenished, and therefore the hot flashes are reduced. If the hot flashes occur against the background of high blood pressure, then it is necessary to take antihypertensive drugs. Antidepressants will help with depressive states, and sedatives will reduce nervous overexcitation. If a hot wave has nevertheless covered you, you should try to pull yourself together, hold your breath, count to seven and slowly release the air, repeat several times. This will help you calm down and relax. You can also resort to the help of a fan or a fan for cold air, take a few sips of cold water.

Treatment of sweating during menopause

An invariable companion of hot flashes is increased sweating - hyperhidrosis. And if hot flashes create a certain discomfort in a woman's life, then sweating can completely throw her off balance. A woman has to change clothes after cold sweat appears on her body, wash often, because an unpleasant odor appears, because of this there are frequent night awakenings, which end in insomnia. All this knocks you off track and leads to a doctor for help. Treatment of sweating during menopause is similar to the treatment of hot flashes: hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants, sedatives, folk remedies using herbal medicine are used. Valerian, hawthorn, motherwort are good for calming. Also, black cohosh, chaste tree, sepia, pulsatilla, etc. are used to prepare decoctions and tinctures.

Treatment of itching during menopause

One of the negative consequences of menopause is a decrease in the secretion of the genitals, which leads to atrophic vaginitis (excessive dryness), causing itching of the perineum and vagina. Itching can also be a signal of more serious diagnoses that accompany menopause due to decreased immunity and require treatment:

• diabetes mellitus, in which high blood sugar levels disrupt the blood supply to tissues, and sugar in the urine irritates the mucous membranes;
• inflammation of the urinary tract, as a result of which the breakdown products of urea come into contact with the vulva due to frequent urination;
• dermatitis, which can be caused by detergents or synthetic underwear;
• thrush – caused by the candida fungus;
• vulvovaginitis – inflammation of the vulva and vaginal mucosa, often provoked by mechanical action due to itching caused by a decrease in mucous membrane secretions;
• infectious diseases: gardnerellosis, herpes, trichomoniasis; itching is caused by their pathogens;
• tumors of the genital organs, the pathogenic bacteria of which secrete toxins and change the microflora, which leads to itching.

There is no point in fighting the consequences of illnesses, so it is necessary to see a doctor and identify the cause of the itching. Treatment of itching during menopause caused by atrophic vaginitis consists of the use of antiseptic, moisturizing and softening ointments, gels, creams, suppositories. Here are some suppositories that relieve itching, made from medicinal herbs:

• vagical, contains calendula officinalis;
• feminella, in the production of which tea tree extract, chamomile, mallow, and peltula were used,
• cicatridina, based on calendula, aloe vera, tea tree oil.

Frequently used ointments include Fenistil gel, Dropalen, Panthenol, and Radevit.

If these agents are not effective enough and there are no contraindications, hormonal drugs are prescribed:

• Estrocad, suppositories, increase the secretion of the mucous membrane of the genitals;
• ovestin, cream, suppositories, ointment, normalizes hormonal levels, is a barrier to pathogenic bacteria;
• Estriol, cream, suppositories, promote the production of mucous in the vagina.

If the above-described diseases are detected, the doctor will prescribe symptomatic therapy. Thus, in case of diabetes, glucose levels will be maintained by such drugs as metformin, maninil, siofor. Pimafucin, clotrimazole, miconazole are used for thrush. Metrodimazole will help get rid of gardnerellosis. Herpes is treated with herpferon, valtrex, alpizarin, and immunomodulators are also prescribed for oral administration. In case of vulvovaginitis, drugs in the form of betadine, iodoxir, terzhinan suppositories will help. Treatment of dermatitis consists not only in the use of Videstim, Rodevit creams, but also in following a diet.

Treatment of mastopathy during menopause

The need to treat mastopathy during menopause arises when the pathologically overgrown connective tissue of the mammary glands forms seals and cysts. The causes that provoke mastopathy during menopause include hormonal changes in the body. Women with early menopause are more often susceptible to the disease. The danger of ignoring mastopathy is the increased risk of its degeneration into a malignant tumor during the climacteric period. It is necessary to pay attention to such symptoms as pain, lumps, asymmetry of the breasts, cracked nipples and discharge from them, enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits. There are several types of mastopathy and the treatment regimen is determined by whether it is diffuse or nodular. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment algorithm. For diffuse mastopathy, hormonal, homeopathic and herbal therapy are prescribed. Hormonal therapy involves the use of antiestrogens, such as tamoxifen, fareston. Thus, women in menopause are recommended to take 20 mg of tamoxifen per day for a period of one to three months. They also adjust their lifestyle, diet, recommend choosing a comfortable bra size, vitamins A, C, E, B, especially B6. Nodular mastopathy requires surgical intervention and rarely resolves on its own without surgery. Regular visits to the doctor (at least once every six months) and mammography will help to avoid larger troubles associated with this problem. Also, you should not neglect vitamin and mineral complexes for women during menopause, which contain all the components necessary for this period, you should avoid stress, balance your diet.

Treatment of uterine bleeding during menopause

The treatment regimen for uterine bleeding during menopause depends on the causes that led to it. They can be caused by:

• diseases of the reproductive organs;
• hormonal disorders (dysfunctional);
• medicinal preparations (iatrogenic);
• pathologies of other organs.

Dysfunctional bleeding most often occurs during the climacteric period, since during this period the body undergoes hormonal changes, ovulation of the egg is disrupted, the thickness of the endometrium increases, and stagnant processes of the mucous membrane and blood occur. The endometrium is rejected unevenly, and at this time blood clotting is reduced. Also, the psycho-emotional state of a woman, infectious diseases can contribute to the development of bleeding. To solve this problem on your own means to expose your life to mortal danger. In case of very heavy bleeding, you need to call an ambulance, in case of moderate bleeding, consult a doctor. What can be done at home:

• take a horizontal position, placing a pillow under your feet;
• apply cold to the lower abdomen, remove after 10-15 minutes for 5 minutes, repeat again, do this for an hour or two;
• drink plenty of fluids to replenish lost fluids;
• take hemostatic drugs as prescribed by your doctor (calcium gluconate, ascorbic acid, dicynone, vikasol);
• infusions and decoctions of the following herbs: nettle, horsetail, water pepper, viburnum bark, yarrow, shepherd's purse.

If a woman is hospitalized, then stopping the bleeding is possible with the help of hormonal drugs, such as combined oral contraceptives regulon, zhanin, non-ovlon, etc., as well as hemostatic agents. Often there is a need for surgical intervention. There are several methods of stopping bleeding. During menopause, curettage is most often used, but there is also cold treatment (cryodestruction) and laser removal of the endometrium (ablation). In case of non-dysfunctional bleeding, treatment is focused on the focus of the disease. In case of oncological diseases, in addition to surgical interventions, chemotherapy and radiation are used.

Treatment of endometriosis during menopause

During normal menopause, against the background of the fading of ovarian functions, the endometrium (uterine mucosa) decreases. But sometimes the opposite process occurs, the uterine epithelium exhibits increased activity and begins to multiply rapidly. This disease is called endometriosis. The exact causes of its occurrence are not entirely clear, but it has been established that risk factors include excess weight, diabetes, infectious diseases, and operations on the internal genital organs. Treatment of endometriosis during menopause differs from treatment during reproductive age and can be conservative or surgical. Conservative therapy involves the use of hormonal drugs to eliminate hormonal imbalance. Norcolut (contains progesterone), gestrinone, danazol (reduce estrogen synthesis), and zoladex are prescribed. The treatment is long-term (from 6 to 9 months), no-shpa, papaverine, etc. are taken to relieve pain, and sedatives are used to calm the nervous system. With the permission of a doctor, you can also use folk recipes. For internal use, infusions and decoctions are prepared from the orthilia secunda and the root of the red brush; for douching - an infusion of propolis.

Surgery is necessary when the disease has not responded to conservative treatment or has been detected late and there are complications. The operation involves removing the uterus. Such a radical measure is justified by the fact that advanced endometriosis threatens a woman with severe anemia, peritonitis and even cancer.

Treatment of ovarian cysts during menopause

Ovarian cysts in women of reproductive age are most often functional and have the ability to dissolve. In women of menopausal age, when there is no menstruation, this is impossible. There are several types of cysts (serous, mucinous, papillary, paraovarian, dermoid, endometrioid), but they all carry the risk of degeneration into malignant tumors. When deciding to remove or try to treat, the doctor weighs such factors as: how long ago the cyst appeared, what size it is, its density, on one ovary or on both, single or multi-chambered, is there an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity? If the neoplasm is not of the dermoid, mucinous or papillary type, small (up to 5 mm) and the doctor does not see prerequisites for its degeneration into cancer, then conservative treatment can be prescribed. It consists of normalizing the hormonal background (drugs rigevidon, ovidon, marvelon). Progestogens, antiestrogens, androgens, anabolics, vitamins E, C, immunostimulants, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory suppositories are also prescribed.

Surgical intervention involves laparoscopy of the cyst or laparotomy of the organs. Laparoscopy makes it possible to remove the cyst itself through small incisions. In more serious cases, laparotomy is used, when the ovaries and even the uterus have to be removed.

Treatment of fibroids during menopause

Uterine myoma is a benign tumor that forms in the tissues of its muscles. The causes of myoma are not fully understood, but it is assumed that a large role in this is played by hormonal imbalances in women. With a significant predominance of estrogen synthesis over progesterone, neoplasms may appear. Menopause is the period in a woman's life when hormonal imbalance occurs. Other factors influencing the appearance of myoma may be heredity, abortions, diabetes, obesity, stress.

Treatment of uterine fibroids during menopause depends on their size, the number and size of neoplasms, and the patient's age. If the fibroid appeared before menopause, there is a small chance that with the fading of ovarian function and, as a result, a decrease in hormone production, it will not grow. But such cases are not so many. Most often, conservative or surgical treatment is used. Medication involves the patient taking hormonal drugs in combination with other drugs that support the body or are aimed at concomitant diseases. Modern methods of treating fibroids include embolization - blocking the uterine arteries. This procedure is performed in a hospital, without anesthesia. Due to the blocking of blood flow to the fibroid nodes, blood does not flow and it dries up. Another modern method is FUS ablation of nodes, their destruction with high-frequency ultrasound. In case of large and multiple neoplasms, in advanced cases, they resort to radical measures - removal of the uterus, and sometimes the appendages.

Treatment of joint pain during menopause

Hormonal imbalance during menopause leads to a decrease in the intensity of metabolic processes in the bones, leaching of calcium from the bones, increasing their porosity, and therefore strength. Osteoporosis, osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernias resulting from changes in discs and ligaments are accompanied by pain. Treatment of joint pain during menopause consists of relieving pain syndromes, relieving inflammation, and strengthening bone tissue. For this purpose, painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, diclofenac, nurofen, piroxicam) are prescribed. There are many different ointments and gels on the pharmaceutical market that are also used for joint pain (chondroxide, diclofenac, fastum-gel, finalgon). To replenish calcium, take calcium preparations, vitamin D3. Enzyme preparations will enhance blood circulation. Strengthening the muscle corset plays a major role in the fight against spinal diseases. To do this, you need to lead an active lifestyle, do therapeutic exercise, engage in moderate physical labor, periodically do massage and manual therapy. Traditional medicine recipes offer various herbal baths, warming compresses, which can also be used.

Treatment of cystitis during menopause

During menopause, there is a risk of developing postmenopausal cystitis, which may occur due to atrophic processes in the body during this period. The mucous membrane of the bladder becomes thinner and becomes bloodless. The defense mechanisms weaken, opening the way for pathogenic bacteria. The body will signal the presence of cystitis with frequent urges, burning and pain when urinating, cloudy urine, and sometimes with blood. Treatment of cystitis during menopause should be preceded by an examination, which consists of a cystoscopy to determine the condition of the mucous membrane of the bladder and urethra, laboratory testing of urine, ultrasound of the bladder and kidneys, and a study of urine culture for the type and concentration of bacteria. After this, a treatment algorithm is determined. First of all, it is aimed at destroying bacteria if cystitis is infectious. In this case, antibiotics are used for treatment, which can only be prescribed by a doctor. They also resort to taking uroseptic drugs, antispasmodics for pain relief, herbal medicine (drinking copious amounts of horsetail, bearberry, and pol-pala decoctions). Hormone replacement therapy will help restore the balance of sex hormones. By using hormonal drugs inside the vagina, you can increase blood circulation in the pelvic organs, and therefore increase the tone of the bladder muscles, increase the thickness of the mucous membrane, and its protective properties.

Women need to take the problem of postmenopausal cystitis seriously, as underestimating the danger can lead to more serious complications and consequences associated with kidney disease.

Treatment of urinary incontinence during menopause

Special muscles called sphincters are involved in the process of emptying the bladder. Receiving an impulse from the brain about its filling, they relax, allowing urine to flow out. In the normal state, the sphincters are compressed. In this way, a person controls the performance of their natural needs. Weakening of the muscles during menopause leads to the fact that control over the sphincters is lost. This process can be intensified by the absence (surgery to remove the uterus) or prolapse of the uterus, infections of the genitourinary system. More than 80% of women around the world after 65-70 years of age face age-related urinary incontinence. Is there a treatment for urinary incontinence during menopause? The answer is yes. The method of treatment depends on whether the incontinence is stressful or urgent. In case of stressful spontaneous urination (when coughing, laughing, sneezing), caused by weakening and decrepitude of the muscles of the pelvic organs, treatment is aimed at strengthening them. This can be physical exercises, the use of hormonal drugs containing estrogens, surgery. Urgent incontinence is a delay in the signal from the brain about the need to empty the bladder, which occurs before the woman reaches the toilet. In this case, drugs are prescribed that reduce the activity of the bladder, the muscles are also strengthened through physical exercises, and sometimes surgery is used. Medications used for urgent incontinence include spazmex, roliten, pantogam, imipramine, etc. There are also modern techniques that "teach" the brain to recognize signals coming from the bladder. A woman can help eliminate the problem herself by refusing spicy and fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, controlling her weight, doing exercises to squeeze and unclench the pelvic muscles.

Treatment of headaches during menopause

One of the unpleasant manifestations of menopause is headache. The culprit of its manifestation is the same complex of hormonal changes that accompany the menopause period. Treatment of headaches during menopause consists of relieving pain symptoms. In addition to analgesics and antispasmodics, which should be taken during attacks, there are various other ways to relieve pain. It is imperative to measure blood pressure, since its deviation from the norm also provokes attacks. With high blood pressure, it is necessary to drink antihypertensive drugs. Headache, especially migraine, can completely knock a woman off track, so it is worth trying all known options for dealing with it. You need to try to relax, resorting to breathing exercises, inhaling and slowly holding your breath exhaling air. Warm foot baths, compresses on the forehead from cabbage leaves, vinegar or lemon solutions, lemon balm tea, mint, St. John's wort, head massage - these are the measures that can at least reduce the intensity of the headache. Restoring hormonal balance with hormone replacement therapy can help solve this problem. Such drugs include klimene, cimicifuga, divina. Remens and klimaktoplan, homeopathic drugs, are well known to women. Vitamin and mineral complexes also have a beneficial effect on a woman's body. Independent selection of drugs is not recommended, since by the climacteric age people are usually burdened with other diagnoses, so undesirable side effects are possible.

Treatment of panic attacks during menopause

The course of menopause can be accompanied by attacks of so-called panic attacks. Their harbingers are sensations of lack of oxygen, numbness of the limbs, dizziness, weakness, sudden rush of heat and sweating, chills. There is a feeling of danger, which supposedly lies in wait for you and your loved ones from all sides, fear of death. The heart begins to beat faster. At this time, there is a large release of adrenaline into the body. It is quite difficult to cope with such attacks, so contacting such specialists as a gynecologist, psychotherapist, neurologist, endocrinologist will help determine the method of dealing with these unpleasant symptoms. Treatment of panic attacks during menopause consists of a comprehensive approach:

• medicinal with the help of antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, hormonal agents;
• non-drug methods using herbal medicine, physical exercises, massage, breathing exercises, and water treatments.

Treatment of dizziness during menopause

Dizziness during menopause can be caused by insufficient synthesis of estrogen in the woman's body, since hormones have a direct effect on brain function. When trying to lose weight by switching to a strict diet, such conditions are also possible, which in medicine are called vertigo. They are characterized by loss of balance, a feeling of surrounding objects spinning in the air, nausea, vomiting. To treat dizziness during menopause, they resort to hormone replacement therapy and non-drug treatment. The latter includes drinking plenty of water, a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, moderate physical activity, for example, yoga, swimming. Breathing and relaxation exercises will help.

Treatment of sleep disorders during menopause

Changes at the hormonal level often lead to sleep disorders. Treatment of sleep disorders during menopause is possible with the help of hormone replacement therapy. But since its use has sufficient grounds for a cautious approach (risk of developing neoplasms), the following recommendations can be applied:

• don't overeat before bed;
• take walks before bed;
• ventilate the room in which you sleep, and it is better to sleep with the window open;
• try to go to bed at the same time every evening;
• do not sleep during the day;
• reduce caffeine intake;
• drink warm milk with honey before going to bed;
• take sedative herbal preparations (valerian root, lemon balm, hawthorn).

Switching to sleeping pills and tranquilizers does not make sense, because this will not solve the problem, but will only lead to addiction. They can be taken for no more than 1-2 weeks in order to give the body a rest.

Treatment of depression during menopause

One of the alarming and dangerous manifestations of menopause is depression. This condition is characterized by prolonged melancholy, loss of interest in life, limited communication with others, a feeling of fear and anxiety, suicidal thoughts. It is doubly dangerous if a woman has already experienced such a condition at a younger age. Treatment of depression during menopause cannot be done without the participation of a doctor. It is difficult for one person to cope with this problem. Hormone replacement therapy (a synthetic analogue of estradiol is used) in combination with antidepressants will change the patient's psychoemotional state for the better. To neutralize the effect of HRT on the uncontrolled proliferation of uterine cells, the hormone dydrogesterone is prescribed. Psychotherapy and autogenic training are also used in the treatment of depression. The attentive and caring attitude of loved ones will help to survive a difficult time for a woman.

Treatment of insomnia during menopause

Sleep disturbance during menopause often develops into a more severe phase – chronic insomnia. Night sleep brings full rest and the opportunity for a woman to perform many functions: work, be a caring mother, wife. Since the main cause of insomnia is a lack of hormones, the main treatment is hormone replacement therapy. The doctor should prescribe taking into account the patient's characteristics and the side effects of HRT – uterine bleeding, weight gain, nausea, headache, thrombosis, malignant tumors. The duration of treatment should be short, and the dose should be minimal. Phytoestrogens are also successfully used: soy, black cohosh, red clover, barley, wheat, etc. and pharmaceutical preparations made from them. Their effect on the body is softer, not burdened with complications, although the intake is longer. It is also important to follow the above recommendations for sleep disorders.

Treatment of VSD during menopause

Vegetative-vascular dystonia (VVD) occurs under the influence of changes in the hormonal background of a woman. If the symptoms of VVD appeared for the first time during this period, then the treatment of VVD during menopause is possible. The human vegetative system consists of two branches: the sympathetic, which activates the heart, spends energy, and the parasympathetic, which accumulates it. The balanced work of these two systems ensures the normal functioning of the body. With a deficiency of hormones, which is typical for the climacteric period, an imbalance of the branches of the autonomic nervous system occurs and this affects many organs. The heart suffers, the muscle tone of the vessels decreases, which leads to changes in blood pressure. Treatment of VVD depends on its type. A distinction is made between the cardialgic type of VVD, which is characterized by pain in the heart, hypertensive (increased blood pressure), hypotonic (decreased pressure) and mixed. Since VVD is a functional disease, not a pathological one, non-drug treatment is more often used to eliminate the symptoms. It is necessary to organize your day correctly, not doing much physical activity, avoid stress, nervous strain, limit watching TV. Walks in nature, proper nutrition, timely sleep will help to restore the lost balance of the body. Drug treatment is carried out in order to restore hormonal balance, enhance the conductivity of nerve signals in tissue cells. This can be done by such drugs as logest, magnefar and other two-phase hormonal agents containing progesterone and estrogens. It is also necessary to regularly monitor your blood pressure. With high blood pressure, hypotensive drugs will help, of which there are a lot on the pharmaceutical market, the doctor will help to choose the right medicine for your body.

Homeopathic remedies are widely used to treat VSD. Dysmenorm, lycopodium, atarax, grandaxin, klimantoplan - this is an incomplete list of drugs that will help stabilize the psychosomatic manifestations of menopause.

Herbal remedies and honey work very well for VSD manifestations. Hawthorn flowers and fruits, motherwort, valerian, hop cones, and lemon balm are often used to calm the nervous system. Tea made from viburnum and elder berries lowers blood pressure. Honey contains many microelements and nutrients that will help strengthen a woman's immunity.

Treatment of tinnitus during menopause

Tinnitus during menopause is not an independent disease, but indicates the presence of some other diagnosis. It can be a symptom of hormonal disorders, hypertension, vegetative-vascular dystonia, neurotic disorders - companions of menopause. Treatment of tinnitus during menopause is aimed at the cause that caused it. With high blood pressure, it is necessary to take hypotensive drugs and antispasmodics to reduce it. If the noise is caused by vegetative-vascular dystonia, it may be sufficient to take soothing herbal remedies, such as valerian root, motherwort, lemon balm, hawthorn. In case of neuroses, you can resort to the use of elenium, amizil, potassium bromide, dibazol, sodium bromide. Taking hormonal drugs can balance the hormonal background and eliminate tinnitus. A doctor's prescription is necessary, because It is very difficult to figure out on your own what provokes such an unpleasant symptom. After all, there is also cervical osteochondrosis and diseases of the hearing organs, which give similar symptoms.

Treatment of neurosis during menopause

Neurosis during menopause occurs when a woman reacts inadequately to the changes that occur with her during menopause. This is expressed in irascibility, sometimes aggression; in unwillingness to take care of themselves, and sometimes, on the contrary, in excessive use of cosmetics in order to look, in their opinion, better; in increased fatigue, in sudden mood swings. If all these symptoms are very pronounced and difficult to cope with on your own, then it is necessary to begin treatment of neurosis, otherwise it can result in a more severe form - depression. The doctor will help determine the severity of the condition and how to treat it: prescribe neuroleptics (psychotropic drugs), hormones (to balance hormonal levels), or you can stop at lifestyle correction, nutrition, psychotherapeutic methods, physical exercises. It should be remembered that all the troubles associated with the onset of menopause are temporary, you need to be able to survive them.

Treatment of irritability during menopause

Irritability often accompanies a woman during menopause. A strong emotional outburst of a negative nature can be completely inadequate to the cause that caused it. Emotions are poorly controlled during this period. This is associated with the loss of the protective functions of the body, which are provided by hormones. During hormonal changes, their production decreases, which affects the mood and mental well-being of a woman. Treatment of irritability should be resorted to if it greatly complicates the life of your environment. It is difficult for a woman herself to assess her condition, for her own good, loved ones should help her with this. To begin with, you should unload her household functions, give more free time for self-care: walks, her appearance, shopping, if it brings her pleasure. You can do auto-training, breathing exercises, take water procedures, including herbal baths, drink decoctions of soothing herbs, which were mentioned above. If irritability lasts for quite a long period, then this is a dangerous symptom and contacting a psychiatrist cannot be avoided. He will prescribe medication, possibly antidepressants, sleeping pills if the patient’s sleep is disturbed.

Treatment of anxiety during menopause

All people tend to be concerned about their health and that of their loved ones, to worry about some actions or inactions, to be afraid of experiencing some unpleasant events in their lives. This state of anxiety during the climacteric period can acquire pathological forms and interfere with a normal lifestyle. This is caused by both hormonal disorders and the realization that the best years of life are already behind us, and old age is getting closer. Treatment of anxiety during menopause with hormone replacement therapy has not become widespread due to frequent side effects, so they resort to alternative treatment with herbal medicine, psychotropic drugs, and physical therapy. St. John's wort is a good phytoantidepressant. Water, oil, alcohol, combined, dry extracts, infusions, and decoctions are used for treatment with this herb. Based on St. John's wort, drugs have been created whose effectiveness in the treatment of anxiety and depressive states has been proven in the course of research. A comprehensive approach to this problem using psychological techniques, herbal medicine, a healthy lifestyle, and, if necessary, medication will help a woman find peace of mind.

Treatment of hair loss during menopause

Hair loss is one of the possible unpleasant aspects of menopause. The reasons for its occurrence may be a decrease in the synthesis of estrogen in the woman's body, and the level of testosterone, a male hormone that is also present in the female body, increases. It is assumed that testosterone is the culprit of male baldness, and therefore contributes to hair loss in women. There are other factors that interfere with the normal blood supply to the hair follicles: hypothyroidism, which slows down the body's metabolic processes, heredity, bad habits, especially smoking, stress, taking medications, skin diseases, etc. Treatment of hair loss during menopause is possible by short-term increase in the content of female hormones in the woman's body in the active phase of menopause, which is most often when this unpleasant moment occurs. In everyday life, it is necessary to follow simple but effective rules that help reduce baldness:

• choose a shampoo that is suitable for your hair type, preferably a professional one;
• wash your hair no more than 2 times a week;
• try to use a hair dryer as little as possible;
• lead an active lifestyle, engage in physical exercise;
• eat right, including more vegetables and fruits, as well as nuts, fatty fish, and cereals in your diet;
• take a vitamin and mineral complex;
• rub grated onion, jojoba and rosemary essential oils into your hair.

Don't give up, as soon as the general condition associated with the hormonal surge stabilizes, the condition of the hair will also improve.

Treatment of pressure surges during menopause

Hormonal changes that occur during menopause affect water-salt metabolism. Sodium ions that accumulate in the blood and tissue cells prevent the removal of water from the body and increase blood volume. As a result, the heart's output of blood increases, which means blood pressure rises. An unstable psycho-emotional state during menopause and excess weight also contribute to pressure surges. Their treatment during menopause, if such a serious illness as an adrenal tumor is not diagnosed, should begin with general strengthening measures: more walks in the fresh air, proper nutrition, try to get rid of excess weight, eliminate alcohol, quit smoking. Hormonal replacement therapy may also be prescribed. Klimonorm, divina, cycloprogynova are drugs that will compensate for the lack of estrogens and progestins. Synthetic hormones can be replaced with herbal and homeopathic drugs, the treatment of which is longer but safer. Widely known and used are Remens, Klimaktoplan, Klimakt-hel, Klimadinon. If during jumps the upper pressure is consistently above 180 mm Hg, it is necessary to switch to medicinal effects on the vessels. Such drugs include ACE inhibitors, they reduce the synthesis of the hormone that narrows the vessels (angiotensin 2). Captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, quinapril, perindopril are drugs from this group. A new group of drugs for combating high blood pressure are angiotensin 2 antagonists: irbesartan, losartan, valsartan.

Treatment of hypertension during menopause

A stable condition of high blood pressure is called hypertension. This is the most common disease in the world, according to statistics, more than 20% of the adult population is susceptible to it. After 50-55 years, the percentage of patients increases significantly, and this indicates that the climacteric period is a serious risk factor in the development of the disease. Treatment of hypertension during menopause cannot be short-term. In fact, it comes down to maintaining systolic and diastolic pressure, so there should be no breaks in taking medications. If this problem is ignored, heart attack, stroke, renal failure are possible, and most often inevitable. There are many drugs that help cope with this problem. They differ in the direction of action, contraindications, side effects. Studies have shown that for women in the climacteric period, the entire arsenal of antihypertensive therapy is acceptable. The doctor, having conducted laboratory and instrumental studies, will decide what is best for the patient: diuretics (water pills), alpha- and beta-blockers (regulating the heart's blood flow), ACE inhibitors (affecting blood vessels), calcium antagonists. There are modern drugs created on the principle of a combination of these drugs. It is worth adding to the therapeutic treatment measures aimed at a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and avoiding stress.

Treatment of palpitations during menopause

During menopause, there is often such a phenomenon as increased heart rate - tachycardia. The heart's job is to contract and relax the muscle, which ensures the delivery of nutrients and oxygen through the blood to all tissues of the body. If the heart rhythm is disturbed, the whole body suffers, not receiving what it needs. Hormonal deficiency reduces the ability of organs to perform their functions: sodium ions that appear in the lymph prevent the removal of fluid from the cells, the level of "bad" cholesterol increases and the blood becomes thicker and more viscous, the elasticity of blood vessels decreases. These are the factors that lead to disruption of the heart. Treatment of palpitations during menopause is necessary to improve your well-being and prevent the development of other, more serious pathologies (hypertension, stroke, heart attack, etc.). In addition to measures related to a healthy lifestyle, drugs are used to restore normal heart rhythm. These include beta blockers: bisoprolol, concor, celiprolol; sedatives: based on valerian, hawthorn, motherwort; drugs that improve myocardial blood supply: mexicor, preductal; sodium channel blockers: mexiletine, allapinin, rhythmonorm. Herbal preparations are also widely used.

Treatment of arrhythmia during menopause

Arrhythmia is a frequent companion of tachycardia, when the order of work of individual parts of the heart is disrupted. Its appearance is provoked by vegetative, metabolic, hormonal changes that accompany menopause. Treatment of arrhythmia during menopause is determined by its type, but in any case, drug treatment is based on antiarrhythmic and antithrombotic drugs. So, with incomplete contraction of one of the organ parts caused by an additional cardiac impulse (supraventricular extrasystole), quinidine and verapamil are prescribed. If there is an arrhythmic contraction of the ventricles (atrial fibrillation), digoxin and propranolol are added to the above drugs. If drugs are unable to stabilize the heart, an operation is performed to eliminate failures in its work.

Treatment of bloating during menopause

Excessive gas formation in the intestines causes bloating - flatulence. In the climacteric period, this can be caused by various pathologies of the internal organs that accompany menopause. Treatment of bloating during menopause is determined by the cause of its occurrence. It is necessary to conduct an examination and exclude the presence of pancreatitis, dysbacteriosis, tumors, intestinal diseases. Hormonal fluctuations themselves without aggravating diagnoses can cause bloating, since during menopause there is a delay in the removal of fluid from the body, the production of bile by the liver decreases. A balanced diet will help get rid of this unpleasant symptom. Products that cause excessive gas formation include alcoholic and carbonated drinks containing caffeine, sweets, red meat, milk, fresh apples, fried foods, canned foods. To determine what exactly provokes bloating, you need to exclude all of the listed products, and then gradually return them to the diet one by one, observing the body's reaction. You also need to chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly so that as little air as possible gets inside.

Treatment of thrush during menopause

During menopause, a woman's immunity decreases, which contributes to the development of various pathologies. Various diseases of the digestive system can provoke the appearance of thrush, since the intestinal and vaginal microflora are very similar to each other and, in the presence of pathologies, are a favorable environment for the reproduction of fungal infections. When taking antibiotics, the beneficial flora of the vagina can also be disrupted, which will give impetus to the development of thrush. Treatment of thrush during menopause consists, firstly, in the correction of hormonal levels, and secondly, in the elimination of the source of infection and inflammation. To determine the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to drugs, it is necessary to examine a smear taken from the vagina. The main treatment is drug treatment, aimed at the pathogenic focus using antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and antifungal drugs. Local therapy with suppositories containing antifungal agents nystatin, fungicide, ketoconazole, fluconazole, etc. gives good results. Combined preparations containing an antibiotic in addition to an antifungal component are also effective. Traditional medicine offers baths and douches using anti-inflammatory agents such as soda solution, potassium permanganate solution, infusions of chamomile, Kalanchoe, thyme, calendula, elecampane. There are also homeopathic remedies that, in combination with the main treatment, will give good results: Traumeel C, Galium-Heel, Lachesis-Plus.

Treatment of vaginal dryness during menopause

Estrogen deficiency during menopause leads to decreased vaginal secretion, dryness, loss of tissue elasticity, and changes in the acidity of the environment. Against this background, the risk of inflammatory processes increases. The most effective method of treating vaginal dryness during menopause is hormone replacement therapy, but it has many contraindications. Therefore, you should first try safer methods: make adjustments to your diet, saturating it with vitamin-rich vegetables, fruits, and cereals; include in your menu foods containing phytoestrogens - beans, soy, carrots, cabbage, parsley, dates, pomegranates, grapes; take healthy fats - vegetable oils, including olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish. There are also pharmacy herbal remedies that are quite effective in eliminating dryness. One of these is Klimadinon, created on the basis of the extract of the rhizome of Cimicifuga. Also, maintaining body hygiene plays a big role, and it is important to use not just any detergents, but special intimate moisturizing and nourishing gels. Underwear should be made of natural fabrics, and it is necessary to wash it without the use of fragrances and conditioners. During sexual intercourse, special ointments for lubrication are used.

Treatment of colpitis during menopause

Colpitis (inflammation of the cervix) in women can be caused by both infection and age-related changes associated with the onset of menopause. This type of colpitis is called senile or atrophic. Its treatment during menopause is aimed at eliminating inflammation with the help of local application of antiseptic suppositories: betadine, terzhinan, iodoxide. Acylact is used to restore the vaginal microflora. The condition of the mucous membrane is improved with hormonal suppositories and ointments containing estriol. If there are contraindications to hormonal agents, douching and baths with herbs with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties should be used: calendula, chamomile, St. John's wort.

Treatment of bacterial vaginosis during menopause

Bacterial vaginosis in women is caused by microorganisms that multiply when the vaginal microflora is weakened (dysbacteriosis). During menopause, the concentration of lactic acid, which provides an acidic environment in the vagina, decreases, thereby causing a decrease in immunity. Treatment of bacterial vaginosis during menopause is aimed primarily at eliminating pathogenic microflora with local antimicrobial agents, reducing the level of the alkaline environment, and strengthening the immune system by taking immunomodulators and vitamins. The second stage involves restoring the vaginal and intestinal environment, since intestinal dysbacteriosis can lead to a relapse of bacterial vaginosis. For this purpose, probiotics are prescribed 2–3 days after the main treatment. Traditional medicine offers recipes for douching with decoctions of chamomile, calendula, and a soda solution. They will not cure bacterial vaginosis, but they will help relieve itching and burning. Folk remedies that strengthen the immune system will be more effective. In case of frequent relapses of the disease, you can resort to vaccination.

Treatment of obesity during menopause

During the climacteric period, when the function of the ovaries fades, fatty tissues take on the role of converting male hormones produced by the adrenal glands into female ones. Many women after 50 years of age gain several kilograms in weight. At this age, physical activity and daily energy expenditure decrease, metabolic processes are disrupted, and the amount of food consumed is often not reduced. Menopause is also characterized by depressed mood, anxiety, depression, which many women "eat away". As a result, body weight increases significantly, which leads to obesity. Treatment of obesity during menopause with hormone replacement therapy can help balance hormonal levels, thereby affecting weight stabilization, but also carries certain threats. It is better to replace it with phytoestrogens. A woman needs to take charge of herself, change her diet and eating regimen, increase physical activity. Experts recommend not to resort to exhausting diets, but to turn to fractional nutrition. You should not eat more than 300-350 g of food at one time, but eat 5-6 times a day. Drink a glass of water half an hour before eating, it will fill the stomach and reduce appetite. Chew food thoroughly. Exclude spicy, fried and fatty foods from your diet. Meat should be lean, the menu must include fish, cereals, lots of vegetables and fruits. The more physical activity, the more kilocalories are spent, which means fat reserves melt. You can visit gyms, fitness clubs or just ride a bike. The main thing is not to give up, because excess weight is a risk factor for many dangerous diseases.

Treatment of edema during menopause

The transformation that occurs in a woman's body during menopause leads to disturbances in water-salt metabolism, excess sodium ions, which delay the removal of fluid from the body and provoke the appearance of edema. Most often, the legs are subject to swelling, especially towards the end, in hot weather. To determine the treatment regimen for edema during menopause, it is necessary to undergo an examination, since such symptoms are also characteristic of kidney diseases, varicose veins, autoimmune diseases, against the background of taking medication. The fight is aimed at the source of the disease. To balance the hormonal background, hormone replacement therapy and herbal medicine are used. Diuretics will help relieve swelling. Sedatives, vitamin and mineral complexes, antioxidants and medicinal plants with such properties will strengthen the body.

Effective treatment of menopause

Today, the most effective treatment for menopause is hormone replacement therapy. Many women are afraid to resort to hormone treatment, fearing the appearance of tumors, facial hair growth, obesity or simply excess weight. This opinion about hormone therapy appeared due to the incorrect use of hormonal contraceptives, which were often recommended by friends, not a doctor. With the right selection of hormones and short-term treatment, this is the best remedy for menopause. If there are contraindications for their use, then it is advisable to use phytoestrogens, their effect is much softer, and the duration of administration is not limited.

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Modern treatment of menopause

Modern treatment of menopause involves the use of new-generation synthetic hormonal drugs that are very close to female hormones. A large arsenal of non-hormonal homeopathic remedies - phytoestrogens (estrovel, klimadinon, feminal, red brush, etc.) are also widely used in modern medicine. In the case of pathological menopause - the occurrence of fibroids, a modern laparoscopic method of removing nodes through small incisions is used. There is also a non-surgical ultrasound method for crushing them. Another new feature is the introduction of sclerosing agents into the uterine vessels in order to stop growth and even reduce the tumor. Treatment of menopause in women is not only possible, but also necessary in its severe course.