There is evidence that other non-drug treatments can be helpful in treating menopausal symptoms.

Lifestyle measures such as dressing in layers; avoiding alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods; stopping smoking; regular exercise; and achieving a health weight, can help with coping with menopausal symptoms. Exercise, not smoking, a healthy diet and a normal weight will also improve your overall health and wellbeing.

There is evidence that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help with coping with menopausal symptoms and also mood disorders.

There is a small amount of medical evidence that some herbal treatments can help relieve hot flushes. However, the products which are available to buy vary in their effectiveness and potency. We also don’t know how they interact with other medications and they are not normally safe for women with breast cancer to take. None are as effective as HRT at treating menopausal symptoms.