Alternative and non-hormonal treatments to symptoms of menopause

Ovarian function can start to decline a few years before the eventual cessation of the menstrual cycle. The average age of menopause in the UK is 51 years, and it is a retrospective diagnosis after 12 months of amenorrhoea. Women can experience many symptoms such as vasomotor and vulvovaginal symptoms that impact them physically, psychologically, sexually and thus their overall wellbeing. Women may have medical contraindications to hormonal therapy or may prefer non-hormonal or alternative treatments. This review looks at the evidence, efficacy, and safety of a range of complementary or alternative treatments and non-hormonal pharmacological treatments for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms and vulvovaginal atrophy of menopause. (c) 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Automated summary

Ovarian function starts to decline a few years before menopause, which is diagnosed retrospectively after 12 months of amenorrhea. Vasomotor symptoms and vulvovaginal atrophy during menopause can have a significant impact on women's physical and psychological well-being. This review examines the evidence, efficacy, and safety of various complementary or alternative treatments and non-hormonal pharmacological treatments for managing vasomotor symptoms and vulvovaginal atrophy in menopause.