There are a lot of myths out there about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). As the word “replacement” suggests, this type of hormone therapy replaces or supplements hormone levels already present in the body and changing in the course of menopause. HRT does not burden the body with foreign substances; on the contrary. With HRT, estrogen and progestogen, present in and necessary for the normal functioning of the female body, are introduced into the body under medical supervision to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause.
What is used in HRT?
First of all, hormone replacement therapy supplements hormones that a woman's body no longer produces because of menopause. The two main hormones used in HRT are estrogen and progestogen (synthetic progesterone). Types of estrogen used therapeutically include estradiol, estrone and estriol, and types of progestogen include hormones such as dydrogesterone, medroxyprogesterone, norethisterone and levonorgestrel.
Two types of HRT
Those who turn to HRT to alleviate the symptoms of menopause can either take both of these hormones (combined HRT) or just take estrogen (estrogen-only HRT). In every case, a gynecologist recommends a therapy based on the patient’s individual needs. Most women take combined HRT because taking estrogen on its own can increase the risk of developing womb (endometrial) cancer. Taking progestogen alongside estrogen counteracts certain mechanisms of how the body reacts to estrogen and minimizes this risk. Estrogen-only HRT is usually only recommended for women who have had their womb removed during a hysterectomy.
Forms of HRT
Depending on the patient’s condition, the gynecologist may recommend the use of hormone replacement therapy in different forms, which can include:
• Tablets - the most common forms of HRT. They are usually taken once a day.
• Skin patches - also a common way of taking HRT. They are attached to your skin and replaced every few days.
• Estrogen gel - it is rubbed onto your skin once a day.
• Implants - they are inserted under your skin.
• Vaginal estrogen - as a cream, pessary or ring that is placed inside your vagina.
How to use them?
Depending on the doctor’s recommendations and the patient’s personal preferences, available therapies may be used intermittently (Cyclical HRT) or continuously (Continuous combined HRT). Cyclical HRT, also known as sequential HRT, is often recommended for women taking combined HRT who have menopausal symptoms but still have their periods. Continuous combined HRT is usually recommended for women who are postmenopausal. A woman is usually said to be postmenopausal if she has not had a period for one year.
Hormone replacement therapy can be a great help for those who suffer more from the symptoms of menopause, but everyone’s body is different. The first thing you should do if you want to know what options are out there for your needs is reaching out to your doctor.