Although a woman cannot prevent menopause, she can take steps to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with this time of life. The most common form of treatment for menopause is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This involves taking synthetic estrogen or a combination of estrogen and synthetic progesterone, known as progestin. Benefits of HRT include:

• Reducing hot flashes
• Relieving vaginal dryness
• Slowing bone loss
• Alleviating mood swings and depression

Although HRT is often effective at controlling symptoms, recent studies have revealed major health risks associated with the treatment. These include:

• Blood clots
• Breast cancer
• Gallbladder disease
• Heart attacks
• Strokes

However, a new study that analyzed various trials concluded that HRT can reduce heart disease risk in menopausal women who begin treatment early, especially before age 60. The same study showed mixed results for older women. For this reason, women should consult with their physician about the pros and cons of HRT. Some women with various health conditions will not be candidates for HRT. These include:

• Pregnancy
• Cancers of the breast and uterus
• History of stroke or heart attack
• History of blood clots
• Liver disease

In some cases, medications can be taken to help strengthen bones and to treat other side effects. In addition, some women may find relief from various forms of complementary and alternative medicine.

Women may also reduce common symptoms associated with menopause by following these general guidelines:

• Exercise regularly. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, running or dancing can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In addition, exercise may help control weight and it has benefits for the heart.
  
  
• Quit smoking. Smoking increases bone loss, probably because it decreases a woman’s production of estrogen and reduces the body’s ability to absorb calcium.
  
  
• Eat a healthy diet. Women should eat plenty of whole-grain products, vegetables and fruits. They should choose foods low in fat and cholesterol and get enough calcium and vitamin D to keep their bones strong. Menopausal and postmenopausal women need about 1,500 milligrams of calcium a day to keep bones strong.
  
  
• Drink in moderation. Women should not have more than one alcoholic drink a day.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy weight. Women should maintain a weight deemed healthy by their physician.
  
  
• Continue to have regular physical and gynecological examinations. Physical exams should include checks of bone density, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Gynecological exams should include an annual breast exam, including a mammogram, and an annual pelvic examination, with a Pap smear every one to three years (depending on health history).

Although good health and sound lifestyle choices can reduce the likelihood of symptoms, most women will experience at least some ill effects associated with menopause. If and when these symptoms occur, steps can be taken to reduce their severity. These include:

• Hot flashes. Women should avoid triggers such as warm environments, eating or drinking hot or spicy foods, drinking alcohol or caffeine and stress. Dressing in layers, exercising regularly and using a fan in the home or workplace can also help women reduce or prevent hot flashes. Non-hormonal therapies, such as alternative remedies like herbs (e.g., black cohosh, soy) or acupuncture have little effect on alleviating hot flashes, according to new findings.
  
  
• Memory problems. A physician can recommend mental exercises to improve memory during menopause. Adequate sleep and regular physical activity may also help prevent memory problems in menopausal women.
  
  
• Mood swings. Sufficient sleep and regular physical activity can often help women combat mood swings during menopause. In addition, physicians can recommend relaxation exercises or prescribe antidepressant medication if necessary. Support groups are often valuable for many menopausal women.  
  
  
• Sleeping problems. Regular exercise may help women achieve a better night’s sleep. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, sugar, large meals and work right before bedtime can also help prevent sleep problems. Some women find they are better able to sleep after drinking a warm, non-caffeinated beverage before bedtime. Women who are having trouble sleeping should avoid napping. In addition, they should try to go to bed and get up at the same times every day, and should keep their bedroom at a comfortable temperature. Women should discuss the use of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medicine for sleep with their physician if they continue to experience difficulties.
  
  
• Vaginal dryness. Various OTC vaginal lubricant products are available for women experiencing vaginal dryness. Prescription estrogen replacement creams might also offer relief for some women.