To be able to make the right decision, you need to know every detail of how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) works. Even if you have made sure that this is the right treatment option for you, there are still different methods and modes of application to choose from. The more you know, the more clearly you will see, in consultation with your doctor, of course, which therapeutic option is the most suitable for you.
The body’s own needs
Menopause means that the body stops producing most of the female hormones, and the menstrual cycle stops. Hormone replacement therapy supplements these hormones in order for this transitional phase to be easier on the body. The female hormones in question are estrogen and progesterone, but not every woman needs to supplement both. The main hormone administered during HRT is estrogen, but during a so-called combined HRT, progestin (synthetic progesterone) is also supplemented to balance certain effects of estrogen. Estrogen by itself increases the risk of uterine cancer, so women who still have a uterus need to take progestin as well.
Benefits of HRT
There is no doubt that replacing menopausal hormones through appropriate treatment has several benefits for women.
HRT is a proven relief for hot flashes, especially in severe cases. The treatment can reduce not only the severity of sweats, but also their frequency. Other symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, sleep disorders, mood swings, joint problems and mental and physical performance, are significantly improved by hormone administration. Overall, HRT offers a significant improvement in affected women’s quality of life.
Other effects
Estrogen deficiency can contribute to various diseases and medical conditions. Hormone replacement therapy has scientifically proven health benefits, which means taking HRT may have some beneficial effects on other diseases as well. One such example is osteoporosis, or bone density loss. Weaker bones fracture more easily and take longer to heal; HRTs may prevent the loss of bone mineral density to some extent. Besides osteoporosis, HRT may also decrease the risk of heart attacks, hip fractures, colorectal cancer, and a lot more.
According to the literature, HRT can assist women with postmenopausal symptoms. In addition, research shows that HRT can help some postmenopausal women with selected comorbid conditions such as osteoporosis, type II diabetes, certain cardiovascular pathologies, and colorectal cancer.
Timing is everything
Hormone replacement therapy significantly reduces the overall mortality rate, but for the best effects, it is important to start the therapy in time. The optimal window of opportunity or the time when women can benefit the most from HRT is – based on numerous studies – between 50 and 59 years of age.