Hormone replacement therapy for women is a form of treatment used to treat menopause and other symptoms. Hormone therapy treats common menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, sleep problems, and more.
Most of these symptoms do not last long. However, taking hormone replacement therapy for prolonged symptoms can help provided relief, reduce pain, and prevent the weakening of the bones (osteoporosis).
When Should a Woman Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy?
As you age, hormones naturally decline. However, in other cases, hormones decline to unusually low levels, which require treatment. Conditions that may cause a decline in hormones include:
- Menopause
- Surgical removal of ovaries and uterus before the age of 45
- Infertility
- Breast cancer and more
The hormones estrogen and progesterone are usually the main culprits for hormone imbalance in women. However, most women only require estrogen hormone therapy. But for women who still have their uterus, progesterone along with estrogen is taken.
What Are the Signs That You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy?
There are a number of signs to look out for that could indicate that you have a hormone imbalance. These include:
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Night sweats
- Sleep problems
- Mood swings
- Hormonal deficiency conditions
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms, consult your doctor, they will perform a hormone imbalance test and work with you to get your health back on track!
The Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
HRT can help you find relief from a vairy of symptoms, including:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Aid in better sleep
- Reduces vaginal dryness
- Make sex less painful
- Decreases risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures
- Improves mood swings and other short term menopause side effects
- Increases blood flow in the blood vessels throughout the body
Should I Take Hormones After Menopause?
Most women with symptoms of menopause can be treated using HRT. When deciding whether to take hormone replacement therapy or not, consult with your doctor first, as they will take you through any possible risks and side effects. You will also need to make sure you are doing it for the right reasons and are receiving the correct dose.
On the other hand, people with pre-existing conditions like hypertension, breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, or pregnant women may be at risk if taking hormone replacement therapy. In these cases, patients are recommended to try alternative therapies to HRT.
Types of HRT for Women
For women, there are different types and various ways to deliver hormone replacement therapy. Some of the common types of HRT include:
- Estrogen only HRT – Mostly given to women who have had their uterus removed, and the progesterone hormone is not needed.
- Sequential HRT – Women who have severe symptoms before menopause take this dosage, mimicking the menstrual cycle.
- Continuous HRT – A combination of estrogen and progesterone is prescribed to woman after menopause continuously
- Normal Estrogen – These include tablets, creams, and injections, which can alleviate urogenital symptoms, including vaginal dryness and irritation.
When a person experiences symptoms that require HRT, a doctor will prescribe a dose based on your individual needs, symptoms, medical history, age, and risk factors. HRT treatment includes:
- Skin patches
- Cream or gels
- Pills/tablets
Finding the Best Hormone Replacement Therapy for You
Before starting your dose, talk to your doctor, and seek the best strategies for:
- The product and delivery method: Considering the symptoms you experience, you need to figure out if you need estrogen in the form of a pill, gel, patch, or cream. For symptoms related to menopause, estrogen in low-dose tablets are usually a better choice than an oral pill or a skin patch.
- The amount of medication you take: Doctors recommend their patients to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time needed to treat their symptoms. The amount of medication given to you will consider your age, duration of your menopausal symptoms, and pre-existing conditions.
- Follow-up care: After the therapy, continue to seek care from your doctor regularly to ensure you still get the benefits of hormone replacement therapy and not the risk of continued side effects.
- Overall Health: Ensure you keep making healthy lifestyle choices that include a healthy diet, physical activities, limiting alcohol intake, and managing health conditions.
Consult with a Hormone Replacement Doctor Today!
Hormone therapy is a treatment option for a range of health issues. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your symptoms, health risks, and how they can help.
If you’re suffering from the damaging effects of hormonal shifts or imbalances, call the Nava Center to get the treatment you need to live your vibrant, healthy life again!