Questions & Answers : menopause symptoms, natural remedies

Natural hormone replacement

Editor — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 19:36:00 GMT

Question:

I have heard rave reviews for a natural hormone replacement called Proges-E. Do you know anything about this?

Name withheld

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Answer:

There are anecdotal endorsements online, but we’re not aware of reputable studies of its effects (which doesn’t mean they don’t exist). A good rule, though, is to approach all herbal remedies with a certain amount of skepticism: If it really worked miracles, wouldn’t everybody know about it?

Will soy ease menopause symptoms?

Editor — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 19:34:00 GMT

Question:

Someone told me that soy products will help slow down the problems menopause cause. Is this true?

Sue

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Answer:

Some studies have shown some benefits, while many others have not. Soy is generally a very healthy way of getting protein, although some researchers have hypothesized a relationship between soy consumption and increased incidences of certain cancers.

Do I need supplements?

Editor — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 17:38:00 GMT

Question:

My doctor said I am going through menopause. Do I need a supplement to get through this? I feel really tired after I eat lunch and when I am driving home from work. I feel really run down once I get home. I need a cup of coffee just to keep me going I was never much of a coffee drinker until the last couple of years. I am 44.

Lexie

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Answer:

You will want to ensure that you are eating a well-balanced diet, which includes sufficient calcium and vitamin D. You should also minimize alcohol and caffeine – try decaf? If you smoke, quit. Finally, assess how well you’re sleeping. Hot flashes and night sweats can degrade sleep quality, leading to fatigue.

Natural vitamins to boost sex drive

Editor — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 16:51:00 GMT

Question:

I am 53 years of age and I seem to have no sex drive. I am tired all the time. I weigh approximately 155 lbs at a height of 5'7". I am trying to lose some weight and eat healthier. I have started to exercise a little. Are there any natural vitamins I could take to help? My relationship is suffering.

Verna

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Answer:

A change in sex drive can accompany menopause. You mention being tired – are symptoms of menopause interfering with your sleep? Fatigue can impact sex drive. HRT might help, if that’s the case. Androgen therapy may also help with sex drive although, like all hormone therapies, it’s not without potential risks. You’re taking some good steps in exercising, eating better, and losing excess weight. Keep up the good work, and try to keep the lines of communication open with your partner. See a doctor – there may be a medical solution.

Castleman's Disease and Menopause

Editor — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 15:25:00 GMT

Question:

I am a 43 year old who had a complete hysterectomy last September. I have a rare disease called castleman’s. Because of it, and an associated high risk of cancer, I cannot take HRTs, even natural remedies. I cannot have any soy products. I don't even know what I am going thru half the time. I need some help! Help! Help! I can't sleep at night. I feel nauseous all the time and sweat profusely. I am frustrated because of my rare disease, which I am having a hard time finding info on.

Name withheld

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Answer:

Our suggestion is that you get in touch with the folks at the Castleman’s Disease Organization. They can be reached at castlemans.org. You could also contact the national Organization for Rare Disorders at rarediseases.org, or the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, at aarda.org.