Advocates of plant-based estrogen or phytoestrogen, like that found in soy products, believe that alternative therapies are keys that fit into, but do not turn, the locked estrogen receptors. We need more good, scientific studies on herbal therapies. Cohen has already worked with a graduate student on an encouraging pilot study of black cohosh and plans a larger study of the herb's effectiveness controlling hot flashes. In Germany, it is sold in pill form as a remedy for menopausal symptoms. Europe is generally ahead of the United States in the availability and understanding of herbal remedies, said Cohen.
Acupuncture is a more regulated form of treatment.
Acupuncturists are licensed, said Cohen, and so women can feel confident about exploring that option. But, more work needs to be done to test acupuncture's effectiveness in combating hot flashes and other menopausal discomforts, she added. Cohen is beginning a study of acupuncture's effectiveness in relieving menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors. Many breast cancer survivors cannot take or are afraid to take prescription estrogen. Chemotherapy can cause perimenopausal symptoms to occur at an earlier age and, some research suggests, can make symptom management more difficult.