Q. I am 56 years old–well into menopause–and stopped taking prescription hormones about four months ago. While they helped somewhat with the hot flashes, they did little for the vaginal dryness and loss of libido. I felt they weren't worth the risks that are now associated with HRT.
The hot flashes are getting worse now, though, and I’d like some natural relief. I hate waking up in the wee hours drenched in sweat. I am not overweight and I exercise 2 to 4 days a week. I've read that black cohosh and other herbal "remedies" are not much help, except for soy. I am not fond of soy milk but wonder how else I can get more soy in my diet. Do you have any suggestions?
A. The research on soy to treat hot flashes is inconclusive, but fermented soy products such as miso and tempeh are readily available and worth a try.
You might also consider Pycnogenol, derived from French maritime pines, or a combination of St. John’s wort and black cohosh. There are studies supporting each of these approaches. We are sending you our brand new Guide to Menopause for an in-depth discussion of natural alternatives for easing menopausal symptoms, including vaginal dryness.
