Health Conditions

Due to negative results from large studies of ERT and HRT, more women may be turning to herbal or natural products ? such as black cohosh, dong quai, soy isoflavones, and wild yam ? to control symptoms of menopause. However, the effectiveness and safety of these alternative products may vary. For short-term use, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that hot flashes may be reduced somewhat by soy isoflavones (for up to 2 years) or black cohosh (for up to 6 months). However, the ACOG also cautions women that the manufacture of most natural products is not regulated by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Thus, consumers cannot be assured of the actual content or quality of natural products.

Additionally, many natural therapies contain chemicals that may act like estrogen in the body, possibly making them inappropriate for women with estrogen-dependent conditions such as endometriosis and some types of breast cancer. Some natural products may interact with other drugs or cause estrogen-like side effects that may be worse than menopausal symptoms for some women. Women who consider taking natural products should discuss the use of those products with a doctor or pharmacist before starting to use them.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.