Many women dread menopause after hearing so much about its symptoms and myths. During this life transition, the many changes a woman has to experience spell not only uncertainty but also discomfort. While there are various treatments available, there is one option that can ease various symptoms—hormone replacement.
Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause occurs when your hormone levels start to change and you stop having your regular menstrual cycle. During your 40s or 50s, your body will start to produce less progesterone and estrogen. This decrease in estrogen results in the symptoms of menopause.
Symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, vaginal atrophy, decreased sex drive, sleep problems, and mood swings. For some women, these may ease after menopause. However, some still experience these symptoms during post-menopause.
Thus, if you have recently experienced intolerable hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause and they have significantly affected you and caused you extreme discomfort, you need to consult your provider about your hormone health.
Hormone Replacement Therapy After Menopause
Medical care for menopausal symptoms involves changing your lifestyles, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise. Another option that your provider can recommend, especially for severe symptoms, is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
HRT can boost your hormone levels, replenishing the estrogen, and progesterone in your body. In effect, it alleviates the symptoms you experience and improves your quality of life. It is also an effective preventative measure against osteoporosis, which occurs because of the decline in estrogen production.
Gels, vaginal creams, skin patches, rings, pellets, or tablets are some of the available forms of HRT. You may also opt to receive it through injection. The length of time you will need hormone replacement therapy will depend on your needs and your body’s response to the treatment. Likewise, HRT may also only be a part of an overall individualized treatment plan to optimize your health and well-being. Your provider may also have fitness, nutrition, and supplement recommendations to keep you healthy and reduce your risk of illness after menopause.
Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy
HRT is beneficial compared to other alternatives because it can address various symptoms at once. HRT provides you with the necessary hormones to help your body cope. It relieves hot flashes, night sweats, dry and itchy skin, as well as reduced libido and vaginal dryness that may cause pain during intercourse.
HRT reduces your risk for osteoporosis, thus preventing bone loss, fractures, as well as tooth loss. Undergoing hormone replacement therapy can also provide modest improvement and relief for joint pains. It can also improve your mood and overall mental well-being. This treatment method is linked to a decreased risk of diabetes and colon cancer.
Risks of HRT
Despite its benefits, HRT still has its risks, including heart disease, stroke, breast cancer, and blood clots. These risks depend on your individual health risks, how you receive HRT, the dosage, and the length of time you’ve been receiving treatment.
Studies have shown that those who start HRT over 60 years old are more susceptible to the risks. Risks are also different depending on the hormone you are receiving (estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone) and the dosage.
Before recommending hormone replacement, your doctor should thoroughly evaluate your family and personal medical history, paying close attention to conditions such as liver disease, heart disease, blood clots, cancer, and osteoporosis.
The benefits generally outweigh the risks; however, it’s in your best interest to consult and discuss options with your doctor. Hormone therapy should be customized and regularly evaluated to fit your condition.
Hormone Replacement Therapy in Denton and Frisco, Texas
Menopause does not signal the start of a life of never-ending discomfort. It’s just a new chapter of your existence that is worth enjoying.
Our team at DFW Anti-aging and Wellness Center led by Dr. Rani Anbarasu can help you reclaim your energy and passion for life. Dr. Anbarasu has an extensive medical background and nearly 30 years of experience providing care for her patients. Our clinic offers wellness treatments and onsite services fit for those seeking customized health solutions.
Our amiable staff members will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services. We have accessible locations in Frisco and Denton, Texas, for your convenience. For your questions and concerns, you may call our office at (469) 389-5251 or schedule an appointment through our online form.
