Hormone Replacement Therapy and Menopause

Hormone replacement therapy is a means of introducing outside hormones into the body when the body’s natural production is inadequate.

Hormone fluctuations caused by menopause can result in estrogen and progesterone deficiencies. Low hormone levels are problematic not only because they produce a range of bothersome side effects (such as hot flashes and mood swings), but for its recently discovered link to the risk of more serious conditions such as:

• Osteoporosis.
• Heart disease.
• Stroke.
• Weakness of the pelvic floor and vaginal muscles.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) works by replacing the body’s hormones and boosting specific hormone levels. HRT is most commonly a combination of estrogen and progesterone.

HRT is available in various forms, including tablets, implants, creams, pessaries and patches. Each form has its own combination of estrogen and progesterone and differs in strength. Women should speak to their doctor when deciding which type of therapy to investigate.

Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy in Menopause

HRT has long been used by postmenopausal women because it provides a range of benefits. Most women use HRT for two to three years, since it helps with the following:

•Relieve troublesome symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings and loss of libido.
• Reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
• Reduce the risk of bowel cancer.

Potential benefits of HRT include:

• Decrease in LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and increase in HDL ("good" cholesterol)
• A small decrease in the risk of colorectal cancer

Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy in Menopause

Substituting synthetic hormones for natural ones produces a range of side effects and carries many risks. For some women, however, the benefits may outweigh the risks. The most common adverse effects associated with HRT are:

• Tender breasts
• Water retention
• Weight gain
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Heavier periods

HRT, especially if used for a prolonged period, can increase the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, stroke, blood clots, DVT, gallstones and endometrial cancer. HRT is recommended as a short-term, low-dose measure for alleviating menopause symptoms.

HRT patients who experience abnormal or excessive bleeding, shortness of breath, chest pains, or coughing should consult a physician right away. Swollen or painful legs while using HRT also warrant immediate medical attention and discontinued treatment.

Now that the relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and menopause has been covered, continue reading to understand the side effects of hormone replacement therapy.

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