As women age, their bodies go through various changes that often include a decrease in hormone levels. This can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, that can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life. One potential treatment option for these symptoms is hormone therapy. Here is a look into the role of hormone therapy for women, how it works, and what you need to know before considering this treatment.

What Is Hormone Therapy?

Hormone therapy involves taking estrogen or progesterone (or a combination of the two) to supplement the body's natural hormone levels. There are two main types of hormone therapy: estrogen therapy (ET), which involves taking estrogen alone, and combined estrogen and progesterone therapy (EPT). EPT is typically recommended for women who still have their uterus, as taking estrogen alone can increase the risk of uterine cancer.

Why Consider Hormone Therapy?

Hormone therapy can be an effective treatment for a variety of symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Additionally, it aids in averting bone loss and lowering the chances of developing osteoporosis. Additionally, some studies have suggested that hormone therapy may offer cardiovascular benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand this potential benefit.

What Are the Risks?

Like any medical treatment, hormone therapy carries some risks. The most serious of these is an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly with long-term use. Other potential risks include blood clots, stroke, heart disease, and gallbladder disease. Women who have a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or heart disease may not be good candidates for hormone therapy. It's important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of hormone therapy to determine if it's the right choice for you.

What You Need to Know Before Starting Hormone Therapy

If you're considering hormone therapy, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Your doctor will need to evaluate your individual health history and symptoms to determine if hormone therapy is appropriate for you. Additionally, hormone therapy should only be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Women who use hormone therapy for more than five years may be at an increased risk of breast cancer. Finally, hormone therapy is not the only treatment option for menopause symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can also help alleviate symptoms.

For more information about hormone therapy, reach out to a local clinic.