Women’s health centre
Menopause - Self-help advice for managing menopausal symptoms
If your menopausal symptoms are not severe, it may not be necessary to treat them using medication. Many women who experience menopausal symptoms find they can ease them by making changes to their lifestyle and diet.
Some of the various menopausal symptoms and how they can be improved by lifestyle changes are outlined below.
The ovaries are two small organs located on either side of the uterus (womb) in the lower abdomen. They make hormones, including oestrogen, which stimulate the growth and release of a tiny egg each month, and which also prepare the lining of the uterus to receive the egg if it is fertilised. Every month, the ovaries release an egg, which makes its way down the fallopian tube potentially to be fertilised. This cycle of egg release is called ovulation.
Read the Ovarian cysts and tumours article > >
To improve hot flushes and night sweats:
- take regular exercise
- wear light clothing
- keep your bedroom cool at night
- try to reduce your stress levels
- avoid potential triggers, such as spicy food, caffeine, smoking and alcohol
To improve sleep disturbance:
- avoid exercise late in the day
- go to bed at the same time every night
To improve mood disorders:
- get plenty of rest
- take regular exercise
- try relaxation exercises, such as yoga

