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Relieving menopause symptoms on your own

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A lot of women try to manage their menopause symptoms themselves. Some make changes to their diet, do sports, or try out yoga or relaxation techniques. Others turn to herbal products or “alternative” approaches. These often promise more than they can deliver, though.

Women don't always need treatment for menopause symptoms, and it isn't always a good idea. Menopause is not an illness. Hot flashes and sweats usually lessen over time even without any treatment, and then go away completely by themselves. Knowing this can help you to get through the unpleasant phases.

One option is to improve your general wellbeing by making adjustments to your lifestyle – for example, by changing your diet or getting more exercise. This can help some women cope better with the menopause transition.

Many women try herbal products or other approaches that are often considered to be “alternative.” But most of these remedies aren't as effective as commonly believed. Others have side effects that are sometimes underestimated.

What role does diet play?

Can sports and exercise relieve menopause symptoms?

What about relaxation techniques, yoga and tai chi?

What are the “alternative” treatment options?

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Updated on January 12, 2023

Next planned update: 2026

Publisher:

Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG, Germany)

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