Hormone Replacement Therapy 101
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may not be for everyone. But no matter what anyone says, the truth of the matter is that no two women are alike and thus experience menopause differently.
Generally, women's estrogen levels begin to decline in their 30s; however, for most women, menopausal symptoms probably won't appear until the mid to late 40s. For some women, these symptoms are subtle and gradual, yet for others it may be intolerable.
Talk to your doctor, your pharmacist, search the Web and check out the medications you have been prescribed. Are they synthetic (containing equiline or medroxypmgesterone) or are they natural (bio-identical)? Take the time to learn about menopause, and be reassured that every woman goes through it at one time or another.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is natural hormone therapy?
How does that differ from my current medication?
How can I tell if need hormone therapy?
What are the benefits of natural hormone replacement therapy?
How do I know what is right for me?
What is natural hormone therapy?
- The term natural may refer to the source of the hormone, as in natural hormones are plant-derived hormones.
- Natural can also refers lo the chemical structure, as in natural hormones are identical in molecular structure as the hormones produced in our bodies, hence the term bio-identical hormones that properly defines natural hormones as both types of natural.
How does that differ from my current medication?
You may be on synthetic hormone therapy.
Simply stated the chemical composition and molecular structure is different than that found in our bodies and thus they act differently and produce very different effects.
How can I tell if need hormone therapy?
Usually hot flashes are the most common symptom are an indicator. Hot flashes are usually the first symptoms and begin several years before the onset of other symptoms. The following chart serves as a guideline to determine if therapy is needed.
What are the benefits of natural hormone replacement therapy?
- Prevention of osteoporosis and restoration of bone strength
- Reduced hot flashes arid reduced vaginal dryness and thinning
- Better maintenance of muscle mass and strength
- Protection against heart disease and stroke
- Improved cholesterol levels
- Reduced risk of endometrial and breast cancer
- Reduced risk of depression
- Improved sleep and better mood, concentration, and memory
- Improved libido
How do I know what is right for me?
Hormone levels can be tested by blood or saliva. Measuring hormones by either of these methods can help you decide what hormone supplementation you may need to better determine the therapy necessary for you.