Prim Care. 2002 Jun; 29(2): 297-321, vi.

Gynecology: select topics.

Sidani M, Campbell J.

Department of Family Medicine, LSU School of Medicine-New Orleans, 200 West Esplanade, Suite 510, Kenner, LA 70065, USA. msidan@luhsc.edu

Menopause, premenstrual syndrome, dysmenorrhea, female fertility, and mastalgia are common problems not easily treated by conventional medicine. Women often seek alternative therapies to help address these conditions. Some evidence points to the efficacy of black cohosh, exercise, and possibly Kava and St. John's wort, in the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Clinical trials indicate that symptoms of premenstrual syndrome may be alleviated with calcium, magnesium, vitamin E. Thiamine, omega-3 fatty acids, the Japanese herbal concoction, TSS, and calcium have proved useful in treating women with dysmenorrhea. Symptoms of mastalgia may be attenuated by evening primrose oil, chaste tree and flaxseed oil may be helpful.