What Can Hormone Replacement Therapy Do For You?
Menopause is tough, no matter how you look at it. After years and years of monthly periods, this is how your body repays you? If you are someone who has been struggling with the effects of menopause, you may want to talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy.
Hormone replacement therapy is when you use some form of medication each day that contains certain amounts of female hormones estrogen and progesterone. There are many ways that hormone replacement therapy can help, including but not limited to the following.
Decrease Bone Loss
Estrogen is a major factor in maintaining healthy bones. Once your levels of estrogen have decreased with menopause, your bones may actually increase the rate at which they are absorbed, leaving you with brittle bones. This is the main reason that older men and women are at risk for bone fractures, especially in the pelvis. Estrogen related osteoporosis is a common problem following menopause. To combat this condition, hormone replacement therapy may be used to maintain your estrogen level and improve your bone health.
Control Hot Flashes
The body's ability to regulate its temperature is also something affected by hormones. While some women seem to almost ignore hot flashes, others are racked with night sweats and hot flashes so strong that it affects their daily life. Hormone replacement can help to balance out these temperature swings, allowing you to work your way through them a little easier.
Reduce Vaginal Discomfort
The walls of the vagina are greatly affected by a decrease in estrogen. They can become dry and fragile, causing vaginal itching, burning, and even painful intercourse. This condition can impact your relationship with your partner, making a hard time that much more difficult. There are several different types of hormone treatments that can help this condition, including vaginal gels, rings, and tablets which can improve the condition of your vagina. These are the safest types of hormone replacement therapies, since they are applied directly to the affected area, and do not affect the whole body as strongly. Your doctor will be able to tell if you are a good candidate for this treatment.
In conclusion, hormone replacement therapy can ease the effects of menopause and help you to feel like yourself again. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits, and see if this treatment is right for you. After everything your body has put you through, isn't it time to take back some control? Talk to your doctor today to learn more about hormone replacement therapy.