What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that
combines estrogen and progestin to restore the premenopausal
levels of estrogen. Hormone replacement therapy is prescribed
for protection against osteoporosis and heart disease, and
relief of menopausal symptoms.
Benefits
It has been well documented for several decades that Hormone
replacement therapy is the most effective remedy for the hot
flashes and sleep disturbances that often accompany menopause
Hormone replacement therapy has also consistently been shown to
decrease vaginal discomfort by increasing the thickness,
elasticity, and lubricating ability of vaginal tissue. Urinary
tract tissue also becomes thicker and more elastic, reducing the
incidence of stress incontinence and urinary tract infections.
Some women and their doctors report that Hormone replacement
therapy can be helpful in relieving the depression and mood
swings that may occur during menopause and can produce a general
sense of well-being and increased energy. Also, some find that
Hormone replacement therapy increases skin thickness and
elasticity, decreasing the appearance of wrinkles. While Hormone
replacement therapy was used initially to reduce the discomfort
from short-term menopausal symptoms, recent studies provide
evidence that it may also reduce some of the negative long-term
health effects of menopause. Scientists are continuing to gather
information to define the potential benefits from Hormone
replacement therapy and to identify the women for whom it may be
most useful. Further research will also be needed to show when
Hormone replacement therapy should be started and how long it
should be continued to achieve the greatest benefits.
Drawbacks:
While Hormone replacement therapy has potential benefits, it
also can have drawbacks. Some of the side-effects of Hormone
replacement therapy are: vaginal bleeding, breast pain, nausea,
cramping, headaches, fluid retention, vaginal discharge,
depression, irritability, weight gain and bloating. A few months
adjustment period is often necessary for women beginning this
therapy. Every woman entering menopause should have a physical
examination and then talk with her doctor about her overall
health, her family history and her physical and psychological
concerns. Working with your doctor to assess your risk factors
accurately should help you determine whether the benefits of
this therapy outweigh the risks for you personally. If you are
concerned about Hormone replacement therapy, consider other
effective non-medical therapies for addressing your needs, and
seek a second opinion before initiating a course of treatment.
For more information, visit http://www.menopauseinfocenter.com