What are the alternatives to hormone replacement therapy?

Non-hormonal menopause treatment may include prescription medicines, psychological support and practical measures for hot flushes, sleep disturbance or mood symptoms. Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can help dryness and discomfort during sex; a clinician can discuss other local options when symptoms persist.

Bone protection is considered separately from symptom relief. Weight-bearing activity, muscle strengthening, adequate nutrition and medicines for osteoporosis risk may all be relevant. People with premature ovarian insufficiency or Turner syndrome need an individual review because hormone needs and bone protection may differ.

List your most troublesome symptoms, their triggers and any treatments you already use. Discuss your history of migraine, blood clots, breast or womb conditions, liver disease, mood symptoms and bone problems before choosing an alternative.

Ask whether one treatment can address your main symptom or whether separate approaches are needed. Lifestyle changes can support sleep and temperature comfort, but persistent vaginal, mood or bleeding symptoms deserve a focused clinical assessment.

Arrange medical review for bleeding after menopause, unexplained weight loss, a new breast change, severe depression, chest pain, sudden breathlessness or one-sided leg swelling. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty or sudden neurological symptoms.

Which symptom should we treat first? Are my symptoms related to menopause or another condition? What non-hormonal treatments suit my medicines and risks? How should we protect my bones? When should I return for review?