Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy

Some women try so-called "natural" treatments to relieve symptoms of menopause. This natural hormone replacement therapy often consists of products made from soy or other plants. These plants contain phytoestrogens (estrogen-like substances), which are the key ingredient in these supplemental products. Bioidentical hormone therapy uses different plant hormones (similar to those in a woman's body) as another type of natural hormone replacement therapy. At this point, there is not enough evidence to say for certain whether these treatments are effective.

 

Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy: An Overview

With the controversy surrounding hormone replacement therapy, some women choose to take herbal, natural, or plant-based products to alleviate their symptoms of menopause. There currently is insufficient evidence to prove whether so-called "natural" hormone replacement therapy is helpful in relieving menopausal symptoms. It's important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of these treatments -- they may have side effects or make another drug not work as well.
 
Some of the most common natural hormone replacement therapy choices include:
 
  • Soy
  • Other sources of phytoestrogens
  • Bioidentical hormone therapy.
     

Soy as a Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy

Soy contains phytoestrogens (estrogen-like substances from a plant). Some research has shown that soy food products can help with mild hot flashes. The risks of taking soy, especially soy pills and powders, are not known. In addition, soy may not be safe for women with estrogen-dependent breast cancer.
 

Other Sources of Phytoestrogens Used in Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy

As mentioned, phytoestrogens are estrogen-like substances found in some cereals, vegetables, legumes (beans), and herbs. These phytoestrogens work in the body like a weak form of estrogen. They might relieve some menopause symptoms, but they could also carry risks similar to those of treatment with estrogen. This idea has not yet been fully explored or tested.
 
In addition to soy, other sources of phytoestrogens include herbs, such as:
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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