HRT For Menopause: Getting Back To Normal

As women age, the natural impacts of aging can be uncomfortable and disruptive to their daily lives. Menopause, usually occurring between ages 45 and 55, can bring with it a range of symptoms. Symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances, among others. For many, symptoms are severe enough to negatively impact their quality of life, but HRT for menopause can help alleviate these symptoms.

What is HRT for Menopause?

HRT for menopause is a medical treatment that involves taking some combination of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. These hormones are synthetic versions made to be bioidentical to the hormones that the female body naturally produces during the reproductive years. As we go through menopause, our bodies produce less and less of these hormones, which can lead to a range of symptoms. By replacing these hormones through HRT, women can alleviate many of the symptoms of menopause, protect their bodies, and live a longer and healthier, more vital life.

How Does HRT Work?

The hormones used in HRT for menopause work by replenishing the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. Estrogen Matters by Dr Avrum Bluming explains how important these hormones are to women’s well-being, and that the fears associated with these therapies are unfounded. Estrogen works to protect our bones, brain, and heart, as well as the health of our skin and hair. Progesterone is important for healthy sleep, mood stability, and anxiety prevention. When levels of these hormones decline during menopause, it can lead to a range of preventable symptoms.  

HRT can be administered in many different ways, including pills, patches, creams, gels, and vaginal rings. A consultation with our experts at Joi can help you determine which method is best for you based on your individual needs.

Benefits of HRT for Menopause

HRT for menopause can offer several benefits for women experiencing symptoms related to menopause. Some of the most significant benefits include:

Relief from hot flashes and night sweats: These symptoms can be some of the most disruptive to a woman's daily life. HRT can help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats, making it easier to sleep and go about daily activities.

Improved mood: Many women experience mood changes during menopause, including anxiety, irritability, and depression. HRT can help regulate mood and reduce these symptoms.

Increased vaginal lubrication: Menopause can cause vaginal dryness, which can be uncomfortable and even painful. HRT can help increase vaginal lubrication and alleviate this symptom.

Improved bone density: Estrogen is important for maintaining healthy bones. As women age and levels of estrogen decline, the risk of osteoporosis increases. HRT can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Reduced risk of colon cancer: Studies have shown that women who undergo HRT may have a lower risk of developing colon cancer.

Reduces risk of heart disease, the #1 cause of death in women, by up to 50%.

Is HRT Right for You?

HRT can be an effective treatment for menopause symptoms, but it's not suitable for everyone. It's important to discuss the risks and benefits of HRT with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Women who have had breast cancer, blood clots, or a history of heart disease may not be good candidates for HRT.

HRT can also have side effects, including bloating, breast tenderness, and headaches. However, these side effects are usually temporary and can be managed by adjusting the dosage or switching to a different type of HRT.

Menopause is a natural transition that all women go through, but it can be a challenging time. HRT is a treatment option that can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause and improve your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with our experts at Joi for help learning if HRT is right for you!