Hormone Therapy for Women

Hormone therapy involves taking estrogen and progesterone to alleviate menopausal symptoms effectively. Estrogen can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats, while progesterone can help prevent endometrial cancer. Hormone therapy may also help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

woman after hormone replacement therapy in Glendale

What is Hormone Therapy?

If you are experiencing symptoms related to menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, or mood swings, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy (HT) as a treatment option.

Hormone therapy involves taking estrogen and progesterone to replace the hormones your body is no longer producing sufficiently. There are two types of hormone therapy: estrogen-only therapy (ET) and combination estrogen-progestin therapy (EPT).

ET is recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy, as they do not need progesterone to protect the lining of the uterus. EPT is recommended for women who still have their uterus, as estrogen alone can increase the risk of uterine cancer.

Benefits of Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy for women can have several potential benefits, including:

Hormone therapy can help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings
Prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women
Improved vaginal lubrication and reduced vaginal discomfort
Reduced risk of colon cancer
Hormone therapy may help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease in postmenopausal women

Who Is a Candidate for Hormone Therapy?

If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, mood swings, or vaginal dryness, you may be a candidate for hormone therapy. Hormone therapy can also prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of heart disease.

In addition to treating menopausal symptoms, hormone therapy may be recommended for women with certain medical conditions, such as premature ovarian failure or primary ovarian insufficiency. Hormone therapy may also be used to treat women who have had their ovaries removed as part of cancer treatment; however, it may not be recommended for those with a history of:

Breast cancer
Blood clots
Liver disease

What Should I Expect From Hormone Therapy?

When it comes to hormone therapy for women, there are several forms of administration:

Pills

Hormone therapy pills are taken orally and available in various types, including estrogen-only, progesterone-only, and combination. The dosage and duration of hormone therapy will depend on the type of pill and your individual needs.

Patches

Hormone therapy patches are applied to the skin and release hormones into the bloodstream over time. They are available in estrogen-only and combination forms and can be used in various body parts, including the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.

Creams and Gels

Hormone therapy creams and gels are applied directly to the skin and absorbed into the bloodstream. They are available in various forms, including estrogen-only, progesterone-only, and combination creams and gels.

Injections

A healthcare provider administers hormone therapy injections typically given in the muscle. They are available in estrogen-only, progesterone-only, and combination forms.

Alternative Treatments for Hormone Therapy

If you are looking for alternative treatments for hormone therapy, there are a few options to consider. While these treatments may not be as effective as hormone therapy, they can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with menopause.

Natural Remedies

Several natural remedies can help alleviate symptoms of menopause. Here are a few to consider:

Black Cohosh, an herb that relieves hot flashes and night sweats
Soy contains plant-based estrogens, which can help alleviate symptoms of menopause
Flaxseed contains lignans, which can help balance hormone levels

Lifestyle Changes

Making specific lifestyle changes can also help alleviate symptoms of menopause. Here are a few to consider:

Regular exercise can help relieve symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and mood swings
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help alleviate symptoms of menopause
Stress management techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can ease your symptoms

While these alternative treatments may not be as effective as hormone therapy, they can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with menopause. Talking to your doctor before trying new treatments or making significant lifestyle changes is essential.

Experience Menopause Relief With Hormone Therapy at Clearwater Medical Group

You’re not alone if you’re experiencing disruptive symptoms related to menopause. At Clearwater Medical Group, we treat this condition daily and are committed to helping women feel their best with hormone therapy. We have been treating the root cause of chronic health conditions instead of masking symptoms, resulting in long-term results without side effects since 2007.

Our doctors have over four decades of experience successfully treating patients with chronic conditions, helping thousands of patients benefit from our various treatments including IV therapy resulting in symptom reduction, weight loss, and pain relief. Contact us today to learn about menopause relief with hormone replacement therapy!