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Fortunately, many of the menopause symptoms are temporary.

Take these steps to help reduce or prevent menopause symptoms effects: 1) If you're experiencing hot flashes, get regular exercise, dress in layers and try to pinpoint what triggers your hot flashes.

For many women, triggers may include hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, hot weather and even a warm room.

2) For vaginal dryness or discomfort with intercourse, use over-the-counter water-based vaginal lubricants (Astroglide, K-Y Jelly), moisturizers (Replens, Vagisil) or vaginal estrogen.

Staying sexually active also helps to beat many menopause symptoms.

3) Optimize your sleep.

If you have trouble sleeping, avoid caffeinated beverages and exercise right before bedtime.

Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation, can be very helpful.

4) Pelvic floor muscle exercises, called Kegel exercises, can improve some forms of urinary incontinence, one of common menopause symptoms.

5) Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and that limits saturated fats, oils and sugars.

Aim for 1,500 milligrams of calcium and 400 to 800 international units of vitamin D a day.

6) Smoking increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and a range of other health problems.

It may also increase ho...

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