There are several menopause treatment options available to help ease symptoms during perimenopause and menopause. Understanding which options may be right for you is an important first step towards finding relief, feeling better and improving your quality of life.
From Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and non-hormonal medicines to lifestyle changes, the most appropriate approach depends on your individual needs, medical history, preferences and health goals. There is no single treatment that suits everyone and more than one approach may be required for your care.
Menopause care is not only about relieving hot flushes, sleep problems or mood changes. Midlife is also an important opportunity to review health risks that may affect wellbeing over the following decades. The Australian Government’s menopause information and Healthdirect’s postmenopause guidance highlight changes in bone, muscle, cardiovascular, metabolic, vaginal and urinary health that can become more important through and after menopause.
At WellFemme, we believe you should have the information, time and support to make informed decisions about your care. Our experienced doctors provide personalised, evidence-based menopause treatment through telehealth consultations across Australia, helping you explore the approaches that may work best for you.
Written by WellFemme staff writer Sally Stankovic | Medically reviewed by Dr Kelly Teagle, Founder and Clinical Director, MBBS, BSc, FRACGP, GDip Women’s Health
Date published: 5 November 2026
Key Points About Menopause Treatments
Treatment should be guided by symptoms and increased health risks that come with menopause as well as personal preferences.
Menopause treatment is individualised, taking into account your symptoms, medical history and personal preferences.
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), is an effective treatment for many menopause symptoms, but it isn’t the only option.
Non-hormonal treatments may help manage specific symptoms, including hot flushes and mood changes.
Lifestyle changes, including exercise, nutrition and strategies to improve sleep, can support symptom management and long-term health.
Combining treatment approaches may help some women manage their symptoms more effectively.
A medical assessment can help identify suitable treatment options and determine whether symptoms may have other causes.
On This Page
What Treatments Are Available For Menopause?
There are several ways to manage menopause symptoms, with treatment options available during both perimenopause and menopause. These include Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), non-hormonal prescription medicines, local treatments for vaginal symptoms and allied-health support such as psychological therapies, lifestyle and behavioural approaches.
The Australian Government outlines a range of evidence-based treatments and complementary therapies in its guide to menopause treatment options.
The most suitable approach depends on your symptoms, medical history, clinical circumstances and personal preferences. A medical assessment can help identify appropriate treatments and determine whether your symptoms may have other causes.
| Treatment category | What it may address | Examples |
| MHT/HRT | Hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal & other symptoms | Estrogen, progesterone, patches, gels or tablets |
| Non-hormonal medicines | Hot flushes or mood symptoms | Prescription options selected by a doctor |
| Vaginal/Urinary treatments | Vaginal dryness, discomfort and some urinary symptoms | Vaginal moisturisers, lubricants and local hormonal treatment |
| Lifestyle and behavioural support | Sleep, wellbeing, strength and long-term health | Exercise, nutrition, sleep strategies and CBT |
| Allied-health support | Pelvic-floor, exercise, nutrition or psychological needs | Physiotherapy, exercise physiology and health coaching |
What Factors Influence Your Menopause Treatment Options?
Choosing a menopause treatment involves more than identifying which medicine works for most people. Your doctor will consider several factors when recommending an approach that is appropriate for your individual circumstances, including:
Which symptoms are having the greatest impact on your daily life
Whether you’re in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause
Your age and, where relevant, how long it’s been since your final menstrual period
Your menstrual bleeding patterns and whether you need contraception
Whether you have a uterus
Your personal and family medical history
Any history of breast cancer or other relevant medical conditions
Your cardiovascular health and any risks relating to blood clots, liver health or bone health
Current medications and treatments you’ve already tried
Your preferences, concerns and treatment goals
There is no single “best” menopause treatment for everyone. The most appropriate approach is one that is evidence-based, medically suitable for your clinical circumstances and aligned with your symptoms, preferences and health goals.
Learn more about the hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options available, including their potential benefits, limitations and suitability for different symptoms.
Complete your free Menopause Snapshot – it can help you identify and better understand your symptoms before speaking with a doctor.
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT or HRT)
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), is one of the most effective treatments for common menopause symptoms. It works by supplementing hormones that decline during the menopause transition, particularly estrogen.
MHT is an effective treatment for hot flushes and night sweats and may also improve sleep when these symptoms disrupt it. Hormone therapy is available in several forms, including estrogen patches, gels and tablets.
For women who have a uterus, a progestogen (such as progesterone) is generally prescribed alongside systemic estrogen to protect the uterine lining. Local vaginal estrogen is another option for vaginal dryness and certain urinary symptoms.
The most suitable treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history, whether you have a uterus and other individual factors.
Although MHT is effective for many women, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Your doctor will consider the potential benefits and risks, including relevant medical conditions and your personal preferences.
Treatment should be reviewed periodically to assess symptom improvement, side effects and whether adjustments are needed.
Healthdirect provides a consumer overview of MHT, while the Australasian Menopause Society explains the benefits and risks. For more information about available treatments and their benefits and risks, see the Australian Government’s guide to menopause treatment options.
Want to understand hormone treatment in more detail?
See our detailed guide to Menopausal Hormone Therapy. A WellFemme doctor can discuss whether hormonal treatment may be suitable for you.
Non-Hormonal Treatments For Menopause
Not everyone wants to use Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), and for some women, it may not be medically appropriate. Fortunately, there are several non-hormonal treatment options that may help manage specific menopause symptoms.
Prescription Treatments
Certain prescription medicines can help manage menopause symptoms without using hormones. Depending on your symptoms and medical circumstances, these may include:
Fezolinetant (Veoza), a non-hormonal prescription medicine approved in Australia for moderate to severe hot flushes and night sweats.
Certain antidepressants, which may help reduce hot flushes and night sweats or treat diagnosed anxiety and depression.
Some blood pressure medicines, which may be considered for managing particular menopause symptoms.
These medicines work in different ways and have different potential side effects. Fezolinetant requires liver function tests before treatment begins, monthly during the first three months, and again at six and nine months. Further monitoring may be recommended. It requires appropriate safety assessment and monitoring: current product and safety information is available from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Your doctor can explain the potential benefits, risks and monitoring requirements of any medicine being considered.
Other Non-Hormonal Approaches
Non-hormonal treatment isn’t limited to prescription medicines. Depending on your symptoms, other approaches may include:
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help manage the impact of menopause symptoms on sleep, mood and daily life. It may also help reduce hot flushes and night sweats.
Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants to relieve vaginal dryness and discomfort.
Pelvic-floor physiotherapy for certain pelvic-floor, bladder and sexual health concerns.
Lifestyle and behavioural strategies, including exercise, sleep strategies and support for emotional wellbeing.
Some women use these approaches on their own, while others combine them with MHT or other treatments.
The most appropriate non-hormonal menopause treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history, clinical circumstances and preferences. A doctor can help you understand which options may be suitable and whether further assessment is needed.
For more information see the Australian Government’s guide to treatment options
Lifestyle and Behavioural Approaches During Menopause
There are many ways to support your physical and emotional wellbeing during menopause. From regular exercise and balanced nutrition to improving sleep and managing stress, lifestyle changes can play an important role in supporting your health and managing menopause symptoms. For women interested in managing menopause naturally, these approaches can be a useful starting point alongside evidence-based medical care.
The Australasian Menopause Society’s lifestyle guidance supports a broad focus on health and wellbeing through midlife and beyond.
Exercise and Strength Training During Menopause
A combination of strength training, weight-bearing exercise and cardiovascular activity can help maintain muscle strength, support bone and cardiovascular health, and improve balance and mobility.
Regular exercise may also benefit mood, emotional wellbeing and sleep quality.
The WellFemme Menoconnect Directory may have experts in your area who can help with exercise plans.
Nutrition and Healthy Eating During Menopause
Good nutrition supports general health throughout perimenopause and menopause.
Rather than following a restrictive diet, focus on a balanced eating pattern that includes adequate protein to support muscle health, calcium and vitamin D for bone health, and plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and healthy fats. Staying well hydrated is also important.
Individual nutritional needs may vary, particularly if you have other health conditions or dietary restrictions.
Managing Sleep Problems
Sleep disruption during menopause can have several causes, including night sweats, stress, changes in sleep patterns and unrelated sleep disorders.
Improving sleep may involve treating underlying symptoms alongside practical strategies, such as maintaining consistent sleep and wake times, keeping your bedroom cool and comfortable, limiting caffeine later in the day and establishing a relaxing bedtime routine. Read more about sleep problems during perimenopause and mental health issues around and menopause.
Managing Stress, Anxiety and Mood
Hormonal changes, disrupted sleep and the demands of midlife can all contribute to changes in emotional wellbeing. Some women experience increased anxiety, irritability or changes in mood during perimenopause.
Strategies such as relaxation, mindfulness, regular exercise and psychological support may help. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can also be useful for managing the impact of menopause symptoms and addressing certain sleep or mood difficulties.
Persistent or severe psychological symptoms warrant appropriate medical assessment rather than being automatically attributed to menopause.
Alcohol, Caffeine and Other Symptom Triggers
Some women notice that alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods or warm environments seem to trigger or worsen hot flushes. However, triggers vary between individuals, and avoiding particular foods won’t necessarily eliminate symptoms.
Reducing alcohol intake and stopping smoking have important benefits for general health, regardless of their effects on menopause symptoms.
Lifestyle changes can be a valuable part of managing menopause symptoms and supporting your long-term health. However, they may not address every symptom, and not all natural remedies are proven to be effective or risk-free. Lifestyle approaches can complement medical treatments, with the most suitable combination depending on your symptoms, health needs and medical history.
Treatment For Vaginal and Urinary Symptoms
Treatment for vaginal dryness may include vaginal moisturisers for ongoing dryness and lubricants to reduce friction and discomfort during sex. Vaginal estrogen may also be suitable for symptoms associated with low estrogen. Unlike systemic Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), vaginal estrogen acts locally on vaginal tissues.
Pelvic-floor physiotherapy may help with certain urinary symptoms, pelvic-floor concerns and pain during sex. Persistent or recurrent vaginal or urinary symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Unexplained bleeding, persistent pain, unusual discharge or any bleeding after menopause requires medical assessment.
For more information download our free “Vaginal & Urinary Symptoms in Midlife” factsheet.
Which Treatment May Help My Symptoms?
Different menopause symptoms may respond to different treatments.
The following table provides an overview of options that may be discussed with your doctor.
| Symptom or concern | Treatment options that may be considered |
| Hot flushes and night sweats | MHT, selected non-hormonal medicines, CBT and practical cooling strategies |
| Menopause sleep problems | Treatment of night sweats, sleep strategies, CBT-I and assessment of other sleep conditions |
| Mood changes and anxiety | Psychological support, lifestyle measures and appropriate hormonal or non-hormonal treatment |
| Vaginal dryness and painful sex | Lubricants, moisturisers, vaginal estrogen and pelvic-floor physiotherapy |
| Bladder and urinary symptoms | Clinical assessment, pelvic-floor physiotherapy and local or symptom-specific treatment |
| Low libido during menopause | Assessment of physical, psychological, medication and relationship factors, with selected treatments where appropriate |
| Bone-health concerns | Resistance and weight-bearing exercise, nutrition, fracture-risk assessment and appropriate medical treatment |
| Joint and muscle pain | Exercise, strength training, pain assessment and investigation of other possible causes |
This table provides general information and is not a recommendation for individual treatment. Some symptoms may have causes unrelated to menopause.
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are related to menopause, a medical assessment can help clarify what’s happening and what treatment options may be appropriate.
Complementary Medicines and Menopause Supplements
Many women explore menopause supplements, herbal products and other complementary therapies to help manage symptoms. These include black cohosh, red clover, soy isoflavones (phytoestrogens), St John’s wort, evening primrose oil, vitamin E, omega-3 supplements, ashwagandha and wild yam creams.
However, evidence supporting their effectiveness varies, and many have not been shown to provide meaningful benefits for menopausal symptoms. Natural remedies aren’t automatically safe, either. Herbal products and supplements may interact with prescription medicines, and their quality, ingredients and dosages can vary.
Before starting a complementary treatment, speak with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you take other medications or have an existing medical condition.
For more information about the evidence and safety of these products, read the Australasian Menopause Society’s fact sheet on complementary medicines and therapies.
Menopause Care and Long Term Health
Menopause care isn’t just about managing hot flushes, sleep problems or mood changes. Midlife is also an important time to review your overall health and consider factors that may affect your wellbeing and quality of life in the years ahead.
Changes in hormone levels during menopause can affect bone, muscle, cardiovascular, metabolic, vaginal and urinary health. Understanding these changes and taking steps to support your long-term health can help you make informed decisions about your care.
For more information, explore the Australian Government’s menopause resources and Healthdirect’s postmenopause guidance.
Heart and Metabolic Health
The risk of cardiovascular disease increases with age, and hormonal changes during menopause can also influence cholesterol levels, blood pressure, blood glucose and how body fat is distributed.
The Heart Foundation’s guidance for women highlights the importance of recognising female-specific cardiovascular risk factors, including menopause, and discussing your heart health with your GP.
Comprehensive menopause care should also consider blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes risk, smoking, physical activity, nutrition and family history.
While Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) can be an effective treatment for menopause symptoms, it should not be prescribed solely to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Bone, Muscle and Physical Function
Declining estrogen levels during menopause can accelerate bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Aging can also contribute to a gradual loss of muscle mass and strength, affecting mobility, balance and physical function.
Regular weight-bearing exercise, resistance training and adequate nutrition, particularly calcium and vitamin D, can help maintain bone and muscle health.
Some women may also benefit from a bone density scan or specific medical treatment, depending on their age, fracture history, early menopause, medications and other individual risk factors.
Brain Health, Cognition and Dementia
Many women experience changes in concentration, memory or word finding during the menopause transition. Sleep disruption, hot flushes, mood changes, stress, other health conditions and aging can all contribute to these difficulties.
Although women are disproportionately affected by dementia, natural menopause has not been established as a direct cause. The relationship between menopause, Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and later dementia risk remains under investigation, and current evidence does not establish MHT as a treatment for preventing dementia.
The Australasian Menopause Society’s guidance on estrogen and cognition explains that the evidence in this area remains incomplete. The Australian Government’s dementia overview provides further information about dementia and its impact on Australian women, while the World Health Organization’s dementia risk-reduction guidance outlines modifiable risk factors, including physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol use, social isolation, high blood pressure and diabetes.
If cognitive changes are progressive, persist or significantly affect daily life, seek medical assessment.
Early, Premature and Medically Induced Menopause
When menopause occurs before age 45, particularly before age 40, or is brought on by surgery or medical treatment, the implications for long-term health can be greater. These women may face increased risks to bone and cardiovascular health and may need tailored advice about Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and preventive care.
For more information, see Healthdirect’s guidance on premature and early menopause and WellFemme’s information about menopause treatment following early menopause or cancer.
Women with a history of breast cancer need individualised advice about managing menopause symptoms and treatment options. Cancer Australia’s clinical guidance provides evidence-based recommendations for this group.
The benefits of good menopause care extend beyond symptom relief. They include identifying health risks, supporting appropriate preventive health checks, treating symptoms that interfere with sleep and daily activities, and helping women maintain habits that support long-term heart, bone, muscle, metabolic and brain health.
When Should I See a Doctor?
You don’t need to wait until your symptoms become severe before seeking medical advice.
Consider speaking with a doctor if:
Symptoms are affecting your sleep, work, relationships or everyday life
Symptoms are new, severe or becoming progressively worse
You’re experiencing possible menopause symptoms before age 45, particularly before age 40
Your periods have become unusually heavy or irregular
You experience bleeding after menopause
You have persistent pelvic pain or unexplained vaginal symptoms
Anxiety, low mood or other psychological symptoms are affecting your wellbeing
You’re unsure whether symptoms are related to menopause or another health condition
Your current treatment isn’t providing adequate relief
Any bleeding after menopause should always be medically assessed, even if it occurs only once.
Heavy bleeding, severe pain or other acute symptoms may require prompt medical attention.
Early assessment is particularly important when menopause is suspected before age 40, as this may indicate premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), which has additional health implications.
What Makes a Good Menopause Consultation?
A good menopause consultation gives you time to explain your concerns, ask questions and feel genuinely heard. Longer consultations allow your doctor to understand your symptoms, medical history, preferences and health goals before discussing evidence-based hormonal, non-hormonal and lifestyle approaches to treatment.
Continuity of care also matters. Being able to book follow-up appointments with the same doctor can help ensure your treatment is reviewed over time, side effects are addressed and recommendations are adjusted as your needs change. At WellFemme, you can book reviews with your chosen doctor to support ongoing, personalised care.
When comparing menopause care providers, look beyond the cost of the initial consultation. Check whether ongoing care requires a membership or treatment program, and whether additional fees apply. A good service should clearly explain its consultation fees, follow-up arrangements and any additional costs before you commit.
What to Expect from a WellFemme Menopause Consultation
During your initial consultation, your WellFemme doctor will take the time to understand your symptoms, medical history and treatment goals to help develop a personalised menopause treatment plan suited to your individual needs.
Your consultation may include:
A comprehensive review of your symptoms
Discussion of your menstrual and menopause history
Assessment of relevant medical conditions and medications
Consideration of other possible causes of your symptoms
Discussion of hormonal and non-hormonal menopause treatments
Recommendations for lifestyle and behavioural support
Prescriptions or further investigations, where clinically appropriate
Development of a personalised treatment plan
Your doctor will explain the available options and help you make informed decisions about your care.
Ongoing Menopause Treatment and Follow-Up Care
Menopause treatment isn’t always a one-off decision. Your symptoms, health circumstances and treatment preferences may change over time. Follow-up consultations allow your doctor to review your progress, assess side effects and adjust your treatment where appropriate.
WellFemme also offers a Transition Support Program, providing additional nurse-led support between consultations for eligible patients.
Find a Menopause Doctor in Australia
Finding the right doctor can make a difference to the care and support you receive throughout perimenopause and menopause.
As an Australian menopause telehealth clinic, WellFemme provides online menopause consultations and treatment across Australia, giving women access to experienced doctors without needing to travel to a physical clinic.
Medicare rebates may be available for eligible consultations, subject to Medicare requirements.
Our doctors can also work alongside your regular GP to support continuity of care.
Ready to Discuss Your Menopause Treatment Options?
Whether you’re considering MHT, looking for non-hormonal menopause treatment or simply want to understand what’s happening with your body, we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Menopause Treatment
The most effective menopause treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history and individual circumstances. While MHT may be the most effective treatment for hot flushes and night sweats, the best overall treatment for an individual depends on their symptoms and health circumstances. Some symptoms respond better to local, non-hormonal, psychological or allied-health treatment. A personalised assessment is more useful than choosing a treatment solely because it is widely promoted.
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is generally the most effective treatment for hot flushes and night sweats. It may also help with other menopause-related symptoms, depending on the individual.
However, non-hormonal treatments may help with particular symptoms or be more appropriate for women who cannot or prefer not to use MHT.
A doctor can help you understand your options and determine which approach offers the most suitable balance of benefits and risks.
Yes. Although MHT, also commonly called HRT, is an effective treatment for many menopause symptoms, several alternatives are available.
These include non-hormonal prescription medicines, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), vaginal treatments, lifestyle strategies and allied-health support.
Some women use non-hormonal treatments alone, while others combine them with MHT. The most appropriate approach depends on your symptoms, medical history and preferences.
Yes. Perimenopause treatment is available even if you’re still having periods.
You don’t need to wait until your periods have stopped completely before seeking help for symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, sleep disturbances or mood changes.
Treatment options may differ during perimenopause because hormone levels fluctuate and contraception may still be required.
Your doctor can discuss appropriate hormonal and non-hormonal treatments based on your symptoms, menstrual history and individual needs.
Not necessarily.
For many women aged 45 and over, perimenopause and menopause can be assessed based on symptoms and menstrual history without routine hormone blood tests. Hormone levels fluctuate during perimenopause, so a single blood test may not provide a reliable picture.
Testing may be appropriate in certain circumstances, particularly when menopause is suspected at a younger age or another medical condition needs to be investigated.
Your doctor will determine whether testing is necessary based on your individual circumstances.
How quickly treatment improves symptoms depends on the treatment and the symptoms being addressed. Some women notice significant improvements within a few weeks of starting MHT, while others may need more time or adjustments to their treatment.
Non-hormonal medicines and behavioural approaches also vary in how quickly they may help.
Your doctor can explain what to expect and recommend an appropriate timeframe for reviewing your response.
Yes. Some menopause treatments may improve sleep or mood symptoms, depending on their underlying causes.
For example, treating hot flushes and night sweats may help women whose sleep is frequently interrupted by these symptoms. MHT may also help some women experiencing menopause-related mood changes.
Psychological therapies and other treatments may be appropriate for anxiety, depression or persistent insomnia. Our menopause mental health and mood guide provides further information.
Not all sleep and mood difficulties are caused by menopause, so appropriate assessment is important.
Yes. An appropriately registered Australian doctor can prescribe menopause treatment through telehealth when clinically appropriate and when relevant prescribing requirements are met.
At WellFemme, our doctors assess your symptoms and medical history before recommending treatment. Prescriptions, investigations or referrals may be arranged where suitable.
Some circumstances require an in-person examination or additional assessment. Your doctor will advise you if this is necessary.
Not all natural menopause treatments are safe or effective.
Some herbal remedies and supplements may cause side effects, interact with prescription medicines or have limited evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness.
Lifestyle measures such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition and sleep strategies can support general health, but they may not adequately relieve every menopause symptom.
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting complementary medicines or supplements, particularly if you take other medications or have an existing medical condition.
Menopause treatment should be reviewed regularly to assess symptom improvement, side effects and ongoing suitability. The timing depends on the treatment, your medical history and whether your symptoms are improving.
An early follow-up may be recommended after starting or changing medication, with further reviews based on your individual needs.
Your doctor can advise how often your treatment should be reassessed and whether adjustments are needed.
The possible side effects of menopause treatment vary depending on the treatment, your medical history and individual circumstances.
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) may cause side effects such as breast tenderness, bloating or irregular bleeding, particularly when starting treatment. Non-hormonal prescription medicines can also cause side effects and may require monitoring.
Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks, help you consider suitable treatment options and review your progress to determine whether any adjustments are needed.
Find the Right Menopause Treatment for You
Every woman’s experience of menopause is different, and your treatment should reflect that.
Whether you’re experiencing early perimenopause symptoms, considering Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) or exploring non-hormonal menopause treatment options, understanding your choices is an important first step.
At WellFemme, our doctors provide personalised menopause treatment and evidence-based care through telehealth consultations across Australia, helping you make informed decisions about your symptoms, treatment options and long-term health.