Menopause treatment doesn't have to be confusing.

If you're facing hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, or sleep trouble, there are clear options that can help. This page walks through the main treatments, what they do, who they help, and how to choose one that fits your life.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective option for classic menopausal symptoms.

HRT supplies estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestin. Estrogen relieves hot flashes, protects bone density, and eases vaginal dryness. If you still have a uterus, doctors usually add progestin to lower endometrial cancer risk. HRT comes as pills, patches, gels, or low-dose vaginal creams and rings. Risks depend on age, health history, and the type of hormones. Women under 60 or within ten years of menopause usually have lower risks. Talk with your doctor about your heart disease, clotting, and breast cancer history before starting HRT.

Non-hormonal drugs and lifestyle steps work well when HRT is not an option.

Low-dose antidepressants like SSRIs or SNRIs can cut hot flashes by a third to half. Gabapentin and clonidine are other prescription choices for severe hot flashes, especially at night. Over-the-counter options include black cohosh and soy products for some people, but results vary and side effects occur. Simple daily changes often help: keep rooms cool, wear layered clothing, reduce spicy foods and alcohol, stop smoking, and use breathable bedding. Regular exercise, enough sleep, and stress reduction improve mood and sleep quality.

Vaginal symptoms need targeted care. Vaginal dryness, pain with sex, and urinary symptoms often persist after hot flashes ease. For local relief, use water-based lubricants or vaginal moisturizers. Prescription low-dose vaginal estrogen is highly effective for dryness and urinary symptoms while limiting systemic hormone exposure. Vaginal DHEA and other non-hormonal prescription options exist too. Ask your healthcare provider which local therapy suits your sexual and urinary health.

Bone health and long-term care matter. Menopause speeds bone loss, raising fracture risk. Calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking help. If bone density is low, prescription drugs like bisphosphonates or denosumab may be needed. Bone checks with DEXA scans help time treatment and follow progress.

How to pick a treatment? Start by listing your worst symptoms and health history. If hot flashes disrupt life and no major risks exist, HRT is often the fastest fix. If HRT is not possible, try non-hormonal medicines plus lifestyle changes. For vaginal issues, try local treatments first. Always discuss options with a clinician, ask about side effects, and set a plan to review benefits and risks every year.

If cost or access is a concern, Canadian pharmacies and other licensed online options can be more affordable for some prescriptions. Always use licensed pharmacies, keep your prescriptions, and check with your provider if you're switching suppliers.

Menopause can start years before periods stop. Perimenopause symptoms vary and treatments often help during this phase too. Try keeping a symptom diary for two months to spot patterns, then discuss targeted options with your clinician and set goals.