1. Replace Your Missing Hormones
Hormone Replacement Therapy, also known as HRT, helps eliminate symptoms of menopause. It can greatly improve the quality of life for a woman going through this time of her life. Hormone replacement therapy replaces the hormones a woman's body has stopped producing in an adequate supply. It is a combination of estrogen and progesterone. Speaking with your health care provider about menopause and your treatment options is the best way to make an informed decision about HRT.
2. The Benefits of HRT
The main benefit of hormone replacement therapy is the reduction of menopausal symptoms. HRT can eliminate hot flashes, night sweats and other common symptoms. It can also reduce the risk of osteoporosis, which is a common disease suffered by postmenopausal women that causes bone loss. HRT can reduce the risk of fractures due to osteoporosis and can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. HRT can lower some risk of heart disease, as well.
3. The Downside to HRT
Women considering hormone replacement therapy must consider the risks, as well as the benefits. Blood clots, strokes and heart attacks are serious risks of HRT. Studies since 2002 have reported women experiencing a higher chance of breast cancer after undergoing HRT. Hormone replacement therapy may have side effects, as well. Women may experience headaches, nausea and breast pain. Consider the risks and side effects when weighing your treatment options.
4. Bioidentical Hormones Are New to the Game
Bioidentical hormones were brought to the public's attention by Suzanne Somers. Some HRT treatments are using bioidentical hormones in place of the traditional hormones in HRT. They are made to imitate a woman's natural hormones, because a woman's body can metabolize these hormones much easier. There are fewer side effects and they are becoming more accepted as more health care providers learn about them. Since they mimic nature's chemical composure, they cannot be patented and they are not regulated by the FDA. They are prescribed to match your individual needs, based on your hormone levels.
5. HRT is a Personal Decision
Women must make the choice to have HRT for themselves. Although it is a personal decision, there are many people out there that feel strongly about this issue who may try to influence your decision. Keep informed on research and current studies and talk to your health care provider about concerns you may have about hormone replacement therapy. If you decide this is the option for you, stay informed and keep your doctor informed of your decision.
