As we age, our bodies change & you may start to notice some unpleasant symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, erratic moods, hot flashes & even vaginal discomfort. While for some of us these symptoms may be manageable, for others it can impact everyday life. One solution to these issues is hormone replacement therapy, which replaces estrogen through medication that the body stops producing when you reach menopause. It is important to know the benefits & risks associated with hormone replacement therapy & consult with your doctor to see if this treatment is right for you.
The Benefits
There are two main types of hormone therapy, systemic that usually is used to treat common menopause symptoms because it contains a high dose of estrogen. The other type is a low-dose vaginal treatment that typically targets vaginal & urinary issues associated with menopause.
Both these types of therapy can help rebalance your body & prevent issues such as osteoporosis, dementia, mood imbalance, stroke, & heart disease. If you have experienced issues with your ovaries before the age of 45, you may have an estrogen deficiency or gone into early menopause, if so, these types of treatments may be beneficial to you.
If you have gone through menopause, hormone replacement therapy can bring relief to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, itching, burning & overall discomfort including intercourse. It can also help prevent bone loss or even bone fractures. It is also important to note that if you have undergone a hysterectomy, your doctor may recommend a combination of estrogen & progesterone to decrease the risk of endometrial cancer.
Overall, hormone replacement therapy can help stabilize your mood, give you more energy & tackle menopause issues.
The Risks
While hormone replacement therapy can be very beneficial, it may not be the best solution for you. It is important to consult with your doctor on any potential risks associated with hormone replacement. Family history could increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, heart disease & even breast cancer. Not receiving the proper combination of hormones can also cause some of these issues, that is why you should have a full assessment to see what works best for you.
Conclusion
Hormone replacement therapy is a great way to get your body back on track. If you have any questions or are interested in learning more about this treatment, meet with one of our healthcare providers at Total Body Therapy of Georgia.