Can Cortisol help with Wechseljahre?

Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. During menopause (Wechseljahre), estrogen levels drop, often causing hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. Elevated cortisol due to chronic stress can worsen these symptoms by further disrupting hormonal balance. However, there is no strong evidence that taking cortisol or its precursors (e.g., DHEA) directly alleviates menopausal symptoms. In fact, long-term cortisol elevation can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and immune suppression. Some women use adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola to regulate the stress axis, but the evidence is limited and not specific to menopause. The provided context does not contain information on cortisol and menopause. Therefore, the answer is: Cortisol does not directly help, but stress management may indirectly improve symptoms. Consult a doctor or endocrinologist before using any hormonal supplements.