1. Estrogen Replacement is an Individual Choice
Menopause is an inescapable fact of life for women. Prior to menopause, two hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) begin to fluctuate during perimenopause, which can last for months or years. As menopause begins, the waxing and waning of these female hormones can continue for years as ovary production decreases until it stops completely, ceasing menstruation. Although every woman experiences menopause as she grows older, symptoms vary between women. While no doubt exists that estrogen replacement will improve symptoms in most women, the decision to use hormones is an individual choice in which a woman should weigh the risks and benefits.
2. Menopause and Quality of Life
Many women don't have noticeable, bothersome menopause symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms that affect their quality of life. Symptoms of low estrogen may include hot flashes and night sweats, which can lead to sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep or a decline in estrogen levels may cause mood swings. Urinary problems, vaginal dryness and a thickening of the uterus lining are also symptoms of low estrogen as a woman's body fights to continue producing estrogen.
3. What Lies Beneath: Other Benefits
Studies indicate that estrogen replacement can help prevent bone loss, which occurs after menopause due to low estrogen levels, staving off osteoporosis in some women. This can help prevent bone fractures in older women. Cholesterol levels appear to be lower in women who use estrogen replacement, however, triglycerides may increase if a woman takes a pill form of estrogen replacement. Research into estrogen replacement is ongoing. Women should ask their doctor annually what new research indicates about the benefits and risks associated with estrogen replacement.
4. The Controversy of Estrogen Replacement: Risk Factors
Overall, the risks to women who use estrogen replacement in low doses for a relatively short period are minimal. If a woman still has her uterus, a doctor may prescribe estrogen in combination with progestin. Although it is uncommon, the use of estrogen replacement alone can cause cancer of the uterus. No clear link exists between the use of estrogen replacement and breast cancer as long as a woman does not also use progestin. Other risks associated with estrogen replacement are increased risk of stroke, blood clots, dementia if estrogen replacement begins after 65, bloating and tender breasts. These risks vary depending on the form and dose of estrogen a woman takes.
5. Natural Estrogen Replacement Versus Prescriptions
Compounds and over-the-counter products, also known as natural hormones, make use of soy, yams and other plants. Some drug makers also use soy, yams and plants to make estrogen. However, the Federal Drug Administrated (FDA) regulates prescription drugs, but not "natural" compounds and over-the-counter products. Other forms of estrogen replacement include vaginal creams, shots, implants, vaginal rings and skin patches. Talk to you doctor about which estrogen replacement product is right for you.
