Menopause remedies: what may help

A remedy may be a daily habit, a non-prescription product or a medicine recommended after assessment. Cooling a bedroom and wearing layers may help with hot flushes and night sweats. Vaginal moisturisers are used regularly, while lubricants can reduce friction during sex. Movement, nourishing meals, steady sleep habits and reducing personal triggers may support wellbeing. Herbal products are not automatically suitable: ingredients vary, interactions are possible and evidence for symptom relief is uneven. Read about [Menopause](/conditions/menopause/) and [Menopausal Mood Changes](/symptoms/menopausal-mood-changes/).

Match the remedy to the symptom and change one thing at a time so you can tell what helps or causes problems. Choose fragrance-free products for sensitive skin and use vaginal products according to their instructions. Keep a list of medicines and supplements for your pharmacist or clinician. If symptoms remain disruptive, ask about hormone therapy, non-hormonal medicines or referrals for pelvic floor, sleep, mood or sexual-health support. Stop a product and seek advice if it causes a new rash, swelling, severe stomach symptoms or another concerning reaction.

Contact a clinician for bleeding after periods have stopped, persistent pelvic pain, a new breast lump or change, severe mood symptoms, or symptoms that prevent normal activities. Urgent care is appropriate for chest pain, breathing trouble, fainting, sudden weakness or confusion. A review is also sensible before using supplements if you take regular medicines, have liver disease, or have had a hormone-sensitive condition.

Which remedy fits my main symptom? Are any supplements unsafe with my medicines? How can I treat vaginal discomfort safely? What signs mean the plan needs changing?