Hormone Replacement Therapy is an option for some women to get through the side effects of menopause. Prior to 2001 most women were put on HRT if they complained to their physician about menopausal side effects, and they stayed on it for 10-20 years. Now studies have shown HRT does not have the health benefits once thought and high dose and long term usage can have adverse effects.HRT at the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time is often now recommended for women who choose the HRT path of coping. Someone who has had estrogen positive breast cancer, HRT is not a viable option.
If you have tried every drug store or internet “solution” and find yourself out of more money than fewer side effects, here are some coping remedies:
1. Fans placed strategically everywhere you go. A small fan in your bathroom as you put on your make-up. Keep a personal fan at your desk for work. Place a small fan on the kitchen counter as you prepare food.
2. Keep your house and office thermostat set at cool. So what that your family and co-workers are wearing down jackets indoors, who cares?
3. Drink iced beverages at all times. Keep ice cubes handy. Drop one down your bra, or rub one at the back of your neck for an instant cool down.
4. Try to make hand held fans and parasols a fashion statement for you when venturing outside in warm sunny weather.
5. Do not fancy the notion of becoming a Vampire. Yes they seem always cool, they don’t go out much in day light but the undead is really not a viable option just to get through menopause.
6. If you are shopping for a new car, buy a convertible. If it rains or snow, just drive faster. If it is really hot outside and you must venture into it, be sure the car has air-conditioning. If you are not in the car buying market, drive with windows rolled down in winter and air conditioning on high all through spring summer and fall. If you take public transportation, sit close to the doors that open, or an open window.
7. Fashion tips from my previous Fashion blog: open toe shoes, wear layers with the first being a wicking layer, no wool, no turtle necks, no hose or socks or hats, waterproof make-up, carry or stash away an extra set of clothes and make-up.
8. You say a mantra that goes a little like this: I love my freedom, I am just menopausal, I do not want to go to jail, I am just menopausal, I do not want to pay attorney and court fees, I am just menopausal, I do not want to look like a crazy woman, I am just menopausal, I am a mature adult, I am a loving woman, I am just menopausal!