Menopause for many women brings on an array of symptoms which they may have been unprepared for.
Including headaches, migraines, fatigue, hot flushes, depression and mood swings.
I have heard women say, I have brought my husband along to the consultation to prove I'm not crazy.
Or please help me my life is a misery.
These changes are not to be underestimated.
The proper functioning of the human body relies on many things including the correct balance of hormones.
At menopause the various oestrogen hormones tend to reduce, creating an imbalance with not just progesterone but also testosterone, DHEA and melatonin.
The headaches and particularly the migraines associated with menopause are most commonly related to low oestrogen, but as we mentioned above all the hormones need to be in a state of relative balance to ensure good health, and a freedom from menopausal symptoms especially headaches.
What path will you take.
1.
There are completely natural plant based oestrogen supplements.
These typically contain soy based natural phyto-oestrogens.
These supplements plus a diet which includes soy based products including, soy milk and tofu can be very helpful when the menopausal symptoms are mild.
2.
HRT.
Hormone replacement Therapy.
This has been the medical mainstay for menopausal symptoms for quite some time, but the risks associated with HRT have become well known with an increased risk of breast cancer being the most serious.
Many conservative doctors still are confident in prescribing HRT.
3.
Bio-identical hormones.
Whilst this form of hormone is not natural, the molecular structure of the hormone is identical to the naturally produced hormones in your body.
The results in clinics which specialize in this area are extremely encouraging, for all menopausal symptoms.
The advantages are that though blood tests the hormones which are typically prescribed as a troche- which is dissolved in the mouth-can be individually prescribed to bring your hormones precisely into balance.
For many women this happens quickly, for some it can take some months to find the right balance and for a small percentage, the quest for balance requires ongoing evaluation.
Regular blood tests can quickly ensure all the hormones are in a safe range.
Many hormones can be checked in the blood tests and a multi formula can be made.
Disadvantages include the higher cost of these hormones as they are made to order by a prescribing pharmacist.
Bio-identical hormones are still considered to be a part of fringe medicine.
The conservative medical world will often criticize their colleagues who prescribe in this manner whilst continuing to prescribe HRT with its clinically proven risks.
The above are your choices, which ever path you choose, please bear in mind that the headaches and migraines are part of a complex hormonal picture and require a treatment approach which embraces all your menopausal considerations not just your headaches.