Menopause - Methods and Risks Associated with Hormone Replacement
Therapies (HRT)
There are as many Hormone Replacement Therapies (HRT) out there as
there are controversies surrounding them. Let us start with learning
what hormone replacement therapy is, and then we can discuss the various
risks associated with each kind.
HRT is simply the process of replacing the hormones in your body that a
woman naturally looses during and after menopause has taken place. Lower
hormone levels may lead to a variety of symptoms that leave a woman
uncomfortable. The various replacement therapies increase the estrogen
and progestin levels in your body. Optimally it brings the level back to
pre-menopausal levels.
Traditional forms of HRT include using prescribed medications to
increase the levels of the various hormones the body no longer produces
on its own. These hormones can include estrogen, progestin and
testosterone. The American Heart Association does not encourage this in
women who may have cardiovascular disease. It is also not recommended if
you are already in the higher risk brackets for breast cancer (such as
family history or smokers).
HRT is also used frequently to help combat the debilitating effects of
osteoporosis. The additional hormones in your body help reduce your
risks of getting osteoporosis (or your bones getting thin and weak).
It appears that the more information that is learned, frequently there
are more questions than answers. There are a number of natural remedies
that are touted as being healthier, more reliable and have less
potential for negative side effects. Unfortunately, these natural
remedies do not have to undergo the same sort of testing that prescribed
medications must endure. Therefore, we truly do not know what long term
risks are truly associated with these natural remedies. An example of
this is using herbal supplements that help increase melatonin in the
blood stream. While melatonin is a chemical produced in your own body
naturally, the long-term effect of adding more to your body’s chemistry
has not yet been determined.
Before making a decision about this important and potentially life
altering decision, talk to your doctor. Learn the facts about the
multiple forms of HRT, all of the risks involved with each form, which
types of treatment have the lowest risks associated with its use and how
long you will need to use it. Regardless of which method you choose,
start at the lowest doses possible and increase slowly as necessary
until the optimal level has been reached. Follow-up with regular visits
and have your blood and urine tested at least every six months. It is
your body and your health. Take control of your health care and do what
is best for you! Menopause does not have to be a difficult transition.
Enjoy this next phase of your life – and be as healthy as possible while
doing so. |
