Medical Treatments for Menopause
Science-Backed Relief When You Need It Most
For many women, menopause symptoms go beyond inconvenience. They interrupt sleep, strain relationships, and affect daily life. Medical treatments—particularly hormone-based therapies—can offer reliable relief with benefits that extend beyond symptom control.
The Menopause Association works to provide women with accurate, evidence-based information about these therapies, so you can make informed choices about your health.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)
BHRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to those your body naturally produces. They come in various forms:
- Topical creams and gels
- Patches
- Pellets inserted under the skin
- Oral capsules or tablets
Commonly prescribed hormones include estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone, depending on your needs and whether you still have a uterus.
Benefits include:
- Reduction in hot flashes and night sweats
- Improved mood and sleep qualityÂ
Protection against bone loss and cardiovascular decline
Functional Medicine Support
Functional medicine practitioners focus on uncovering and addressing the root causes of menopause symptoms. These approaches may include:
- Targeted nutrient therapies, such as magnesium, vitamin D, and essential fatty acids for hormone balance and bone health
- Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola to support resilience and stress response
- Personalized dietary protocols that optimize gut health and steady blood sugar levels
- Probiotic and anti-inflammatory foods to support metabolic and immune function
- Mind-body techniques, including meditation, breathwork, and guided relaxation for emotional and cognitive support
These strategies can be used alongside BHRT or on their own, depending on your personal goals and symptom profile.
Non-Hormonal Medical Options
Some conventional providers may prescribe non-hormonal medications such as SSRIs, SNRIs, or Gabapentin to manage symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, or sleep disruption. While these medications can offer symptom relief, they are not typically used in functional medicine settings.
At The Menopause Association, our focus is on root-cause care. This includes supporting hormonal balance through nutrition, bioidentical hormone therapy, lifestyle modification, and personalized protocols. We encourage women to explore treatment paths that align with their values and long-term wellness goals.
Is Medical Treatment Right for You?
Whether you’re newly in perimenopause or years into postmenopause, a conversation with a trained provider can help determine if medical therapy is safe and appropriate for your health profile.
The Menopause Association connects women with menopause-informed clinicians and offers educational tools to help guide your decision.