Menopause is a natural part of aging that every woman experiences differently. It is not a disease or a condition to “fix,” but a life transition that can bring physical, emotional, and mental changes. Here, we collaborate with Elektra Health to share general information about menopause and common options women may discuss with their providers. It is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
What is Menopause?
Menopause marks a point in time when someone has gone 12 months in a row without a menstrual period. The years leading up to that point are called perimenopause, when hormone levels begin to shift and symptoms often start. The years after are known as post-menopause.
Because hormones can change gradually and unevenly, symptoms may begin years before menopause and can continue afterward. No two experiences are exactly alike.
Common Symptoms of Menopause
Women can experience a wide range of symptoms before, during, and after menopause. Some may be mild, while others feel more disruptive to daily life. Common symptoms include:
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Hot flashes and night sweats
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Trouble sleeping
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Mood changes, anxiety, or irritability
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Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
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Joint or muscle aches
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Vaginal dryness or discomfort
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Changes in libido
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Fatigue
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Headaches
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Weight changes
Not everyone has all of these symptoms, and the type or intensity may change over time.
An Overview on Menopause Hormone Therapy
Menopause Hormone Therapy, sometimes called MHT, uses estrogen—often with progesterone—to help manage certain menopause symptoms. It has commonly been used to reduce hot flashes and night sweats, and some women also report improvement in sleep, mood, or energy levels.
Hormone therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Different types exist, and decisions about treatment are made based on personal health history, symptoms, age, and individual risk factors. Many women choose not to use hormone therapy, while others consider it part of their care plan.
Health experts generally agree that hormone therapy may be an option for some healthy women, especially when started earlier in the menopause transition. A health care provider can help explain potential benefits and risks based on individual circumstances.
Types of Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy can vary in two main ways: how it is delivered and how it is made.
Systemic Therapy
Systemic therapy enters the bloodstream and affects the whole body. This form may be used for symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, or bone loss.
Localized Therapy
Localized therapy is applied directly to the vaginal area and uses lower doses. It is often used for vaginal dryness or discomfort and has limited effects on the rest of the body.
How Hormones Are Made
Some hormones have a structure that matches those naturally made in the body, while others are slightly different. There are also differences between medications that are FDA-approved and those that are mixed by specialty pharmacies. These distinctions can matter when discussing safety, consistency, and effectiveness.
Non-Hormonal Options for Hot Flashes
Hormone therapy is not the only option for managing menopause symptoms. In recent years, new non-hormonal prescription medications have become available to help manage many common menopause symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats, also known as vasomotor symptoms.
These medications do not contain hormones. Instead, they work on areas of the brain that help control body temperature. They have been studied in women who experience moderate to severe hot flashes and may be an option for those who cannot or choose not to use hormone therapy.
Two non-hormonal medications that may be discussed with a health care provider include:
Fezolinetant (brand name VEOZAH®):
This medication works by blocking a receptor in the brain involved in temperature regulation.
Elinzanetant (brand name LYNKUET®):
This medication targets more than one temperature-related receptor in the brain.
As with any prescription medication, these treatments are not appropriate for everyone. Your provider can review medical history, discuss potential risks and benefits, and explain whether a non-hormonal option may be appropriate. Coverage and costs may vary depending on your MVP plan.
Talk to Your Doctor
When considering non-hormonal options, it may be helpful to have a conversation with your provider. Some questions to consider asking include:
- Could these symptoms be related to menopause or another condition?
- Based on my health history, are non-hormonal options a good fit for me?
- What are the possible side effects, and what should I watch for?
- How will we know if the medication is working?
- Are there any other treatment options I should consider?
Open conversations allow providers to better understand what support may be helpful.
Lifestyle Approaches That May Help
Many women explore lifestyle changes as part of managing menopause symptoms. While results vary, small adjustments may help improve comfort or overall well-being.
Examples include:
- Dressing in layers and keeping sleeping spaces cool
- Limiting caffeine, alcohol, or spicy foods, which may trigger hot flashes
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques like paced breathing, yoga, or meditation
- Establishing a consistent sleep routine
- Staying physically active in ways that feel manageable and enjoyable
It can be helpful to focus on one or two changes at a time rather than trying everything at once.
Finding Support
Menopause is a shared experience for many women, yet it can still feel isolating. Learning about the transition, talking openly with trusted people, and asking questions during health care visits can help women feel more informed and supported.
MVP members may have access to support through Elektra Health, a virtual menopause care program that provides education, coaching, and personalized guidance for managing symptoms. Through Elektra, members can connect with menopause specialists, explore symptom management strategies, and access resources designed to support their health during this transition. Learn more or sign up here.
Everyone’s menopause journey is different. Having access to clear, reliable information can help women make decisions that feel right for them at every stage.