Menopausal Symptoms

Some women can have stronger symptoms than others. Tell your healthcare provider because treatments can help.

Vaginal Dryness

Women with vaginal dryness can:

• Use an over-the-counter, water-based lubricant such as K-Y Jelly.
• Can avoid douching. It can dry the vagina and cause infections.
• Remain sexually active to help prevent thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls
• Use topical estrogen therapy, like inserting creams, rings, or tablets containing low doses of estrogen into the vagina. These treatments may help treat vaginal dryness, reduce discomfort during sex, and lower risks of urinary problems.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes tend to be one of the worst symptoms of menopause for many women. Strategies to reduce hot flashes include:

• Keeping the home cool
• Wearing breathable fabrics such as cotton or silk
• Dressing in layers that can be taken off when hot flashes happen
• Drinking cold liquids
• Limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking
• Reducing stress

If symptoms don’t improve or cause problems with sleep, mood, or daily activities, some supplements and medications may help. 

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy happens when a woman gets estrogen from a pill or patch. Women going through menopause used to receive this therapy to treat symptoms. However, large studies reported that estrogen harmed older women by causing heart disease, stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer.

More recent research shows that hormone therapy can successfully treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. This treatment generally involves taking estrogen and progesterone. Women under age 60 or within 10 years of menopause usually get the therapy. Healthcare providers prescribe the lowest dose that is effective for about 5 years.

Discuss hormone therapy with a healthcare provider. The risks and benefits are related to a woman’s:

• Symptoms
• Age, and time since menopause
• Other health conditions
• Family health history

Last Updated April 2023