Postmenopause is the period after menopause, when a woman's ovaries have stopped producing eggs and female hormone levels have declined, causing symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness and forgetfulness. While most symptoms gradually decline following the onset of menopause, some women experience similar and new complaints afterward. They may benefit from remedies for postmenopausal symptoms.
Hormone-Related Symptoms
Phytoestrogen and phytoprogesterones are plant compounds belonging to a larger group called phytosterols that are very similar in structure and activity to progesterone and estrogen. Supplements with herbs and foods high in these chemicals can alleviate some of the symptoms of postmenopause. As estrogen and progesterone production has declined significantly, many women continue to experience conditions such as hot flashes, night sweats, flushing and palpitations for up to 10 years after the end of menopause. Some postmenopausal women experience new conditions such as facial hair growth caused by a new imbalance in the ratio of male and female hormones. As estrogen and progesterone levels have fallen, testosterone is able to exert more influence causing hair growth and contributing to mood swings and the aforementioned vaginal dryness. Supplements known to be high in phytoestrogens are red clover, dong quai, black cohosh and soy products. Wild yam extract is a primary ingredient in natural progesterone creams and is known to have both progesterone properties and is a proestrogenic phytonutrient that may increase the levels of estrogen within the body.
Vaginal and Urinary Symptoms
After estrogen and progesterone production declines, vaginal secretions decrease, resulting in dryness. This contributes to pain during intercourse and may also lead to an increase in the risk of vaginal infections. Many water-based vaginal lubricants are available over the counter and can be used to reduce these symptoms. Urine retention may become a problem during postmenopause as the muscles surrounding the bladder atrophy, adversely affecting bladder control. Saw palmetto has been shown to increase bladder tone and urinary retention and, in the event of urinary leakage, several products are commercially available for garment protection. Kegal exercises have shown some benefit in strengthening the muscles of the vagina and pelvis, which may reduce sexual and urinary discomfort.
Bone and Brain Function
Osteoporosis and loss of mental acuity are two symptoms of natural aging that dramatically increase after menopause. Osteoporosis will contribute to bone breakage in nearly 50 percent of women over the age of 50. A high quality calcium and vitamin D supplement should be taken by any woman who is in postmenopause to treat bone density loss and aid in the prevention of osteoporosis. Gingko biloba has been shown to increase mental alertness and improve memory retention in postmenopausal women.
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