Replied by Bess (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) on 10/05/2011
Hi G from NYC - When it comes to hormones, I think it might be wise to visit a naturopath who specializes in women's health. They usually prescribe a bio-identical hormone combination cream or gel that contains the proper amount unique for your body. They take a blood sample and do a hormone panel to determine exactly what is needed. The prescription is filled by a compounding pharmacy who makes up your individual cream/gel. Also, the naturopath can tweak it in case you still have problems after using the cream for awhile. That'll take the guess work out of taking an array of herbals and tinctures and potions and lotions but still not getting the results you want.
In case you would rather not visit a naturopath, there are a number of good books available to read about hormones. A good idea is to go to amazon.com and type in hormones in the search box. Read the customer reviews for a few of the books and see if any seem worth reading (customers are very forthcoming in their opinions! ). Then check your library - there is a good chance they will have it. Good luck - menopause won't last forever! Take care, Bess