Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medication that commonly contains female hormones. It is most widely used to help ease the symptoms of menopause. Hormone therapy works by making estrogen in the body to replace what has been lost. HRT has been proven to have many benefits to help improve everyday life.

Types of HRT

There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy. The first type is called combined HRT and is mainly used for women who still have their womb. The second type is oestrogen-only HRT for women who have had their womb removed in a hysterectomy. HRT is offered in multiple forms including tablets, patches, implants, gels, and sprays.

The Benefits of HRT

Hormone replacement therapy is an attractive option for women struggling with menopause. It can help relieve most common symptoms. Examples of symptoms include hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, and a reduced sex drive. HRT is also known to decrease the risk of osteoporosis by helping prevent thinning of the bones. In addition, some women claim that it helps with fatigue and weight loss.

The Side Effects of HRT

The risk of HRT is, on average, minimal for most women. According to studies, oestrogen-only HRT had little or no change in the risk of breast cancer. Combined HRT could be associated with a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer. A small risk of blood clots was possible when taking the HRT tablet; However, there is no increased risk with the patches or gels. Heart diseases and strokes are other common concerns in the medical world. When HRT is started before the age of 60, it could reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. The tablet is associated with a slight increase in the risk of strokes, but for women under the age of 60 it is normally a safe and helpful treatment.

How Hormone Replacement Has Changed Women’s Lives

Hormone replacement therapy has been revolutionary in the healthcare field regarding women. Thanks to HRT, problems that most women would not associate with hormones can be cured. For example, many women claimed that HRT cured or helped their anxiety and depression. In addition, the beneficial changes that HRT can provide to women’s sex drive helps strengthen their romantic relationships.

How to Get Started With HRT

Getting started on hormone replacement therapy treatment is something that should be discussed with a medical professional. You can usually begin HRT at the first symptoms of menopause. If you are between the ages of 40-45, your doctor may suggest a blood test to measure your hormone levels. The International Menopause Society recommends that HRT be started before the age of 60 or within the first 10 years of menopause. Reach out to your general practitioner to learn more about what hormone replacement therapy can do for you.