Alternatives to Hormone Replacement Therapy in Postmenopausal Women.

Substantial number of postmenopausal women suffers in silence. They experience vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, atrophic changes in the genital and urinary systems and lack of sexual desire. The fear, side effects and contra indications of oestrogen discourage hormone replacement therapy. Life style modification with change in dietary habit, regular exercise, cessation of alcohol and smoking can help them immensely. Tibolone, Selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), Antidepressants like Venlafaxine, th Alpha 2 agonists like clonidine, carbapentine and various supplements are frequently prescribed. Available alternatives and their merits are discussed.