Menopause is a natural biologically process experienced by every woman at some point. Your body goes through different changes because of the fluctuating hormone levels. As a result of hormonal imbalance in the body, there are irregular periods throughout the year.
Various symptoms of menopause are hot flashes, irregular sleeps and vaginal discomfort. In few cases, symptoms are minor and no medical assistance is required. Hormone replacement therapy is often useful during early menopause, which happens due to primary ovarian insufficiency or other diseases.
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can also trigger Menopause. If uterus is removed and ovaries are retained, menopause does not take place instantly. In case are ovaries are removed as well, then menopause unavoidable.
In order to avoid symptoms of menopause HRT is highly recommended these days. However, it has its own part of risks . Thus, you should consider a lot of factors before opting for Hormone Replacement therapy as a part of your treatment process.
There are various options available for HRT. Which are-
- estrogen only (ET)
- combined estrogen and progesterone (EPT)
- combined estrogen and methyltestosterone
You can choose these treatments in any form you like such as injections, pills, or skin patches.
These are sold in easy-to-use vaginal suppositories, creams, or rings.
Circulatory and respiratory systems
There might be a risk if the dosage isn’t taken with proper consultation. Thus, it is suggested that you start the treatment with low dose. This will reduce the chance of any health risk. However, there is continuous controversy on the dosages and usage of hormones. Hormones such as17β –estradiol has similar molecular and chemical structure like the one produced in your body and are easily available in retail pharmacies.
Custom compounded therapy products are hugely introduced too, but currently due to lack of detailed studies, it is not completely considered safe. Side effects may differ from woman to woman, considering the various combinations of hormones.
Studies shows that HRT reduces the chances of blood clots and stroke in women. However, these health conditions are not much of a concern for women between 50 and 59 years.
Reproductive system and sexual health
Due to drop in estrogen level, you can face problems like itching, vaginal dryness and burning sensation. This might interfere in your sexual intimacy, which can be cured by HRT. Problems like vaginal discomfort can be cured by using various creams instead of going for oral HRT.
It can also play a role in increasing the tenderness and swelling of your breast. It can make it appear fuller, which might make it difficult to trace cancerous cell, thus increasing the chance of breast cancer. Thus, you must consult a doctor before going for HRT.
Central nervous system
HRT can help in curing the symptoms of anxiety, depression and many mental health issues. In some cases, it is also seen that HRT causes headache and mood swings. In other cases, it was found that HRT played an important role in decreased rates of Alzheimer.
Skin and bones
Many woman uses estrogen patches where minor itching or irritation can be caused at the spot of the patch. However, the benefits overcome these minor side effects.