Symptoms of Menopause
Question
I am 54 years old and ten yrs out from stage four breast cancer. Began hrt for vaginal dryness and bone density three years go. Took prometrium and .5 Climera patch. I was recently diagnosed with a re-occurrence of the cancer in vertebra. Pathology was estrogen and progesterone positive. Taking Femera and Zometa completed five weeks radiation to spine. What can I do to help with menopause symptoms (hot flashes, fatigue, vaginal dryness, high blood pressure, no libido)?
Answer
Last Updated: June 14, 2013
There are non-hormonal therapies for menopausal symptoms. For hot flashes, take Vitamin E 400-800 mg. daily and the herb black cohosh three to four times daily; the Remifemin brand is particularly good. Vaginal dryness can be helped with over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers such as Replens or Astroglide. Keeping well hydrated and with particular attention to good nutrition and sufficient sleep are important for optimizing your energy.
Dr. Mary Davenport
Dr. Mary Davenport
Answered By:
Mary Davenport, MD, MS
Mary Davenport, MD, FACOG, an obstetrician/gynecologist from the Oakland Region of California, offers telehealth services over MyCatholicDoctor.com She graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her residency at UC San Diego. Dr. Davenport is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and serves on the Advisory Board of the California Association of Natural Family Planning.
