It’s been close to 12 months or more since your last period. The estrogen levels in your body have decreased, affecting everything: your sleep, your mood, your weight, your hair, your skin. And then there are the hellish hot flashes.

For the vast majority of healthy women, supplementing your body’s natural estrogen provides the safest and most effective relief from symptoms and also protects against serious health issues as you age. For women who have had their last period within the past 10 years, there are plenty of options for how to take your estrogen— pill, patch, or vaginal cream. If you have a uterus, you will also need to take progesterone.

Take a look at the menopause options below and make your selection. A menopause-trained physician will review your choices and let you know your best options.