The ovaries produce little estrogen after menopause. Hot flashes are sudden warm feelings in the face and upper body caused by fluctuating estrogen levels. Hormone replacement also helps to retain bone mass and to restore sex drive. One of the most common complaints of menopausal women is vaginal dryness, Carney said. This can cause painful intercourse.
Counseling can help, and doctors can adjust prescriptions.
Some studies show that taking estrogen and testosterone therapy together more effectively boosts sexual desire than estrogen alone, Carney said. But this combination can also lower levels of good cholesterol. Finding the proper hormone dose for each woman takes several months. Rebecca Bruce of Columbia said it is comforting to know that the symptoms can be treated. It helps to know that this too shall pass.