Natural menopause usually requires no treatment.

For the irritating symptoms of menopause such as

- irregular menstrual periods
- hot flashes
- vaginal dryness

do try homeopathic remedies. These can be a wonderful support.

Research eating foods or supplementing with naturally occurring estrogen in plant foods

Please seek professional medical care:

§ If you are postmenopausal and are experiencing any bleeding.

§ If you are experiencing the symptoms of menopause and you are under age 40

Many women undergo hormone replacement therapy. Numerous studies have been done on the effects of ERT and the results are conflicting. ERT reduces the severity of hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and helps to prevent osteoporosis. These effects are strongly supported by previous studies and agreed upon by physicians. Some long-term studies have suggested that ERT helps to prevent heart disease, although recent studies have been conflicting. Promising new research studies have suggested that ERT may help prevent Alzheimer's disease, although the results are too preliminary to regard seriously. Some studies show an associated increase in uterine and breast cancers, while others don't. Some show an increase in sex drive; others show a decrease. Rather than helping depression during menopause, estrogen may actually make it worse. Incidence of liver tumors and gallbladder disease may also increase, while the risk of colon cancer may decrease.

Until more is known about ERT and HRT, women should weigh the benefits and the possible risks against the symptoms being experienced. Thorough investigation is recommended.