Hormone replacement therapy for women is therapy used to treat healthcare issues associated with declining hormone levels. It is most commonly used for women who are experiencing menopause or those who have had a hysterectomy. Hormone replacement therapy can be estrogen-only or estrogen and progesterone.
Hormones play many important roles in health, so supplementing them when the body slows production makes sense. They aid in the production of calcium, help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and promote the health of the sexual organs. The drop in hormone production can cause night sweats, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, pain during intercourse, sleep problems, and mood issues. It can also increase your likelihood of developing osteoporosis.
Hormone replacement therapy for women is a good choice for individuals who are experiencing moderate to severe symptoms associated with menopause. It is also often a good choice for those with a history of osteoporosis in the family. Hormone replacement therapy is not for everyone, individuals with breast cancer, a history of blood clots, and those with heart disease should talk with their doctor about ways to manage their menopausal symptoms.
Hormone replacement therapy is not an indefinite treatment. The therapy is used during the time of severe symptoms. Most women find that they can taper off the therapy after five years, and many do not need treatment for that long. The replacement hormones are available as a gel, patch, pill, and vaginal ring or cream.
Some people worry about the long-term dangers of hormone replacement therapy, but it is generally considered safe unless you have particular conditions that contraindicate the therapy. Individuals who suffer from menopausal symptoms that interfere with their ability to enjoy daily life should speak with a professional about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy for women. Using low dose therapy for a few years can be exactly what is needed to regain control of your life.