Menopause Supplements

Menopause Supplements

Menopause is the medical term used to describe the time when a woman starts to lose her ability to have children. This is due to decreases in hormones (natural substances that are found in the body and are used as signals to make certain processes happen) and fewer eggs. This usually happens as women age. At first, women notice missed periods. Over time, women will stop menstruating (having periods). During this time, women may also experience hot flashes, mood changes, and disruptions in sleeping patterns. Many women find that these symptoms can hamper their daily lives. They find it hard to function every day and may feel that they need some help to make them feel better. Menopause supplements may help to reduce these uncomfortable side effects. Menopause supplements are usually made from plant extracts called phytoestrogens. These phytoestrogens are thought to act in the same way that estrogen does. Because of this, some research suggests that phytoestrogens may help with symptoms of menopause. There are many herbs and plants that have phytoestrogens. These include red clover, black cohosh and soy.

Choosing the Right Menopausal Supplement

Walgreens carries many supplements formulated to reduce the symptoms associated with menopause. While research suggests that these supplements may be effective for menopausal symptoms, more research is needed to confirm their benefits. Many of these supplements have blends of different phytoestrogens and other herbs. Black cohosh is most often used to control night sweats and problems with sleep. Red clover is used most often to control hot flashes. Some types of soy have been shown to help with hot flashes as well. All supplements have the potential to cause side effects in certain individuals. You should talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you take any supplement for your symptoms. He or she can help you develop an overall health and wellness plan that will focus on your needs. He or she can also tell you whether or not a menopause supplement is safe for you based on your medical history and any medications or additional supplements that you take.

This summary is intended for general informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of purity, strength, or safety of the products. As a result, effects may vary. You should read product labels. In addition, if you are taking medications, herbs, or other supplements you should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking a supplement as supplements may interact with other medications, herbs, and nutritional products. If you have a medical condition, including if you are pregnant or nursing, you should speak to a qualified healthcare provider before taking a supplement. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.