Neuromodulation to treat menopause-related conditions

Abstract

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for treating a menopause-related condition in a subject. One step of the method can include inserting a therapy delivery device into a vessel of the subject. Next, the therapy delivery device can be advanced to a point substantially adjacent a target site of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) that is associated with the menopause-related condition. The therapy delivery device can then be activated to deliver a therapy signal to the target site of the SNS in an amount and for a time sufficient to effect a change in sympathetic activity in the subject and thereby treat the menopause-related condition.

1 - 7 . (canceled) 
     
     
         8 . A method for treating a menopause-related condition in a subject, the method comprising the steps of: placing a therapy delivery device, without penetrating the skin of the subject, into electrical communication with a target site of the SNS that is associated with the menopause-related condition; and activating the therapy delivery device to deliver a therapy signal to the target site of the SNS in an amount and for a time sufficient to effect a change in sympathetic activity in the subject and thereby treat the menopause-related condition. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 8 , further comprising the step of placing the therapy delivery device on the skin of the subject. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein the target site of the SNS is a cervical ganglion. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein delivery of the therapy signal to the target site of the SNS substantially blocks sympathetic activity at the target site. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 8 , further comprising the step of programming the therapy delivery device so that the therapy signal is automatically delivered to the target site of the SNS at a pre-determined frequency and intensity. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 9 , wherein the menopause-related condition is hot flashes. 
     
     
         14 - 19 . (canceled)