Alternatives to HRT
We know that HRT can be a lifesaver for some women but others either do not want to take it or are unable to use it in their menopause journey.
With so many variations of supplements available to women it can be quite overwhelming when considering which could be right for you. However, it really could be worth taking the time to research as some herbal alternatives can be very effective in relieving symptoms – especially phytohormonal supplements.
Phytohormonal supplements are herbal supplements that can boost female sexual hormones, usually due to the phytoestrogens they contain – weaker plant-based oestrogens which are similar to, but not quite the same, as those found in HRT. For many women, they can help ease hot flushes, night sweats, fatigue, anxiety, vaginal dryness and impaired sleep.
The benefits of these natural remedies increase over time as their activity builds up in your body, week after week. Therefore, if you take these you should give yourself at least one to two months to appreciate their full effects.
Furthermore, the effective daily dose for any herb may vary considerably depending on the supplement and your individual situation. As a result, the exact dose of a phytohormonal remedy cannot always be recommended upfront.
It is also important to flag that:
- your individual reaction to herbal supplements can sometimes be unpredictable, especially when dealing with multiple preparations
- herbs can interfere with some pharmaceutical treatments
Since every woman has different needs and a different medical history, speaking to a health care practitioner with expertise in supplementation (such as a registered nutritional specialist, a herbalist, a naturopath, or a doctor or a pharmacist with expertise in natural medicine), is always the best way to ensure that you are about to take the most appropriate and safest supplement(s) for you.
To find a comprehensive list of phytohormonal supplements please visit the My Menopause Centre website Additions and alternatives to HRT – phytohormone supplements | My Menopause Centre
