alternative medicine for perimenopause
evidence is mixed in regard to the efficacy of natural products and there are some safety concerns. this is not surprising since vasomotor complaints are the primary symptoms women seek treatment for during the menopause transitition.5 the placebo effect has been demonstrated to reduce hot flashes on average in rcts by 25%, 14,15 and previous research indicates a 50% reduction in hot flash frequency to be a clinically meaningful change.16 hot flashes can be measured through subjective reports and physiological monitoring. hypnosis has been recommended by the north american menopause society, and others, for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and poses little risk.24,25 cbt is an action-oriented psychological intervention that has been used to treat hot flashes, depression, and other menopausal symptoms. however, the evidence to support the use of yoga for other menopausal symptoms is inconsistent. side effects of black cohosh may include: gastrointestinal problems, rash, and acute hepatitis.12,17,61 wild yam is a tuber that has been historically used in traditional chinese medicine to treat multiple symptoms, including symptoms of menopause.80 however, there is limited and inconsistent evidence for the effects of wild yam on menopause symptoms.