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What is menopause?

Certain health problems, such as osteoporosis (brittle bones) and increased heart disease, are associated with menopause. To help prevent such problems, many women choose to take an estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to replace what their body is no longer producing. Along with over the counter products, this is the primary treatment for the symptoms of menopause.

Lifestyle changes can also help relieve or prevent menopausal symptoms. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods can help prevent hot flashes. Keeping cool and dressing in loose layers of natural fabrics such as cotton can help reduce the discomfort of a hot flash. Kegel exercises can strengthen pelvic muscles, preventing urine leaks and improving bladder control. Regular exercise can help prevent osteoporosis and heart disease. It can also lessen symptoms of depression.

Sources:
Applied Therapeutics: The Clinical Use of Drugs. Applied Therapeutics, 1995.
Danforth's Obstetrics and Gynecology. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Graziottin A. “Libido: The Biologic Scenario.“ Maturitas 34 (2000).The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1997.
Diseases and Conditions, "Menopause." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/3/2007.

This answer prepared 09/16/2000.
This information updated 1/3/2007.