Image for menopause article The following tips may be beneficial for these common symptoms of ]]>menopause]]> .

Hot Flashes

  • Wear fabrics that breathe, such as cotton. Do not wear silk, polyester, and other synthetics that tend to trap body heat.
  • If you feel a hot flash coming on, drink a glass of cold water.
  • If troubled by night sweats, keep a cold facecloth or ice pack by your bed.
  • Instead of pantyhose, wear cotton pants or thigh high stockings.
  • Decrease your intake of caffeine and alcohol.
  • Avoid spicy foods and hot drinks.
  • Avoid tobacco.
  • Try eating and drinking more soy products.
  • Some women claim that taking ]]>vitamin E]]> daily helps. The herb ]]>black cohosh]]> is also widely used. ]]>Rhubarb extract]]> may be helpful. Talk to your doctor before taking any herbs or supplements.

Vaginal Dryness and Urinary Problems

  • Use a vaginal cream or lubricant (avoid petroleum jelly) to help reduce pain from dryness during sexual intercourse.
  • Urinate before and after sexual intercourse to help prevent bladder infections.
  • To help prevent ]]>urinary tract infections]]> , drink plenty of fluids and empty your bladder frequently.
  • Try ]]>Kegel exercises]]> daily. These exercises, which tighten and relax the muscles you use to stop urination, strengthen the vaginal muscles, enhance orgasm, and help prevent ]]>incontinence]]> .

Psychological Problems

If you are feeling ]]>anxious]]> , irritable, or ]]>depressed]]> , the following suggestions may help you:

  • Communicate openly with your partner about your symptoms and ask for support.
  • Join or even start a support group specific to menopause or other life changes you are experiencing.
  • Find and share support with colleagues at work who are going through the same experience.
  • Seek ]]>counseling]]> .
  • Identify which sources of stress you can eliminate from your life.

Weight Gain

  • Engage in an ]]>aerobic exercise]]> at least three times per week for at least 30 minutes per session.
  • Find ways to incorporate more exercise into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
  • Decrease your intake of fat and calories.