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World J Obstet Gynecol. Nov 10, 2013; 2(4): 87-93
Published online Nov 10, 2013. doi: 10.5317/wjog.v2.i4.87
Published online Nov 10, 2013. doi: 10.5317/wjog.v2.i4.87
Folic acid supplementation: The new dawn for postmenopausal women with hot flushes
Ayman AA Ewies, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham City Hospital, Birmingham B18 7QH, West Midlands, United Kingdom
Author contributions: Ewies AAA solely contributed to this paper.
Correspondence to: Ayman A A Ewies, MBChB, MSc, FRCOG, MD, Consultant Gynaecologist, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham City Hospital, Dudley Road, Birmingham B18 7QH, West Midlands, United Kingdom. aymanewies@hotmail.com
Telephone: +44-121-5074042 Fax: +44-121-5075680
Received: March 29, 2013
Revised: June 12, 2013
Accepted: June 18, 2013
Published online: November 10, 2013
Revised: June 12, 2013
Accepted: June 18, 2013
Published online: November 10, 2013
Core Tip
Core tip: Hormone replacement therapy usage by postmenopausal women with hot flushes causes concerns over possible increased risks particularly breast cancer. The improved longevity of women in general and breast cancer survivors in particular, and the limited success shown by the non-hormonal alternatives made it imperative to find a therapy that is effective and safe. It is hypothesized that folic acid supplementation may ameliorate hot flushes by the same mechanism as estrogen supplementation, i.e., by reducing noradrenaline and increasing serotonin neurotransmitters. This article discusses the rationale, potential role, mechanisms of action and safety issues related to its use in these women.