How Menopause Is Treated

Treatment during menopause often focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, since menopause itself is described as a normal life stage rather than a disease. The article notes that vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can help with vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex. It then outlines lifestyle steps: strength training and aerobic exercise can counter age-related muscle and bone loss that accelerates after menopause begins, while regular moderate activity may help manage mood changes. Yoga is mentioned as potentially supporting flexibility, bone health, and hot flashes. Dietary guidance from the Menopause Society emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber, and fish and other proteins with limited saturated fat and sodium. For hot flashes, it suggests reducing spicy foods and caffeine. It also discusses limiting alcohol, which may worsen hot flashes and night sweats, plus over-the-counter vitamin D and calcium in some cases.