Not many women look forward to menopause. This is the time in your life when your body is done with reproduction and your hormones begin to change. This change can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, some of which are difficult to control. But did you know that herbal supplements may be able to help?
Inga Zilberstein, MD, is an obstetrics and gynecology specialist who practices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York. She offers several different treatments and therapies for menopause, and she helps you understand your symptoms so you can get the relief you’ve been looking for.
Menopause doesn’t happen overnight — in fact, you can be in the first stage, perimenopause, for years before your menstrual cycle ceases. During this time, your body goes through a lot of hormonal changes that can take a toll on you after a while.
Estrogen and progesterone are the main hormones that change when you go through menopause. As you age, production of these hormones declines, leading to the end of your fertile years. However, when these hormones become scarce, it leads to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, which include:
Your period changes as well. You may notice abnormal vaginal bleeding as your period becomes irregular and shorter than it was before. This is all due to the decline of your reproductive hormones.
You’re not considered in menopause, though, until you haven’t had a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months. At this time, you’re past perimenopause, and your symptoms may or may not change.
Herbal therapy is a natural kind of treatment that’s used to help you ease the symptoms of menopause. It doesn’t involve any harsh medications that may have unpleasant side effects. Herbs have been used for a long time to help with a number of different problems, including hormone imbalances from menopause.
If you’re seeking a way to naturally reduce your menopause symptoms, herbal therapy may be just what you’re looking for. Under the direction of a doctor, they can be safer or easier on your body than other types of medications or treatments.
What types of herbs can address menopausal symptoms? There are quite a few, and a combination of some of these may be effective for you. Herbs that can help with menopause symptoms include:
Although these herbs are relatively safe, they’re just like any other substance you put in your body. They can react to medications you’re on or interact with your body in an unfavorable way. That’s why it’s best to talk to Dr. Zilberstein before taking any herbal supplement for menopause.
Many of the above herbs have been noted to help with hot flashes; however, research is ongoing. It’s important to read information about herbal supplements before you start them to make sure you understand the dosing and possible side effects.
Black cohosh is one of the better-known herbs that seems to have a positive effect when it comes to hot flashes.
Ginseng is an herb that’s often found in different types of teas. It’s been shown to help with the mood swings often associated with menopause. Ginseng may also help with the sleep disturbances brought on by this stage in your life.
Sometimes, a combination of herbal therapy, nutritional guidance, and other treatments — such as bioidentical hormone therapy — may be what you need to get long-term relief from your symptoms.
Don’t continue to suffer needlessly from menopause symptoms. We can help. Call today at 646-601-6351 to schedule an appointment with Inga Zilberstein, MD. You can also book a consultation using our online tool.
