Alternative medicine and the perimenopause - An evidence-based review

The perimenopause is a challenging time of life for many women and for health workers caring for them. Gynecologists and others who care for women need to be aware of the evidence supporting or refuting the claims made for both conventional and alternative medicine. Any therapy that provides effective and safe mitigation of the tumultuous and distressing endocrine events associated with the perimenopausal transition should be offered and used. An expanded array of therapeutic options may increase the likelihood of successful treatment and promote enhanced satisfaction. Such improvements can help to cement long-term relationships between providers and patients for health and well-being now and in the future.