What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for Women?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also called “menopausal hormone therapy (MHT)”, is a remedial treatment used to relieve uncomfortable symptoms caused by menopause.

After menopause, levels of the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone gradually decrease over time. These hormones regulate your reproductive cycle and help the body utilize calcium.

What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement?

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves the use of hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the human body. These hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, are derived from plant sources and are formulated to be structurally identical to the hormones our bodies produce.

BHRT is often contrasted with conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which may use synthetic hormones that are not identical to human hormones. BHRT potentially offers a more natural approach to hormone therapy with fewer side effects compared to synthetic hormones as well as more individualized treatment options.

The goal of BHRT is to restore hormone levels to a more youthful balance, potentially alleviating symptoms of hormone imbalance or deficiency that can occur with aging or certain medical conditions.

Indications

The symptoms of menopause can begin many months before the actual onset of menopause and is called perimenopause. Symptoms can include:

• Hot flushes or flashes
• Night sweats
• Poor mood or mood swings
• Low energy or depression
• Vaginal dryness
• Low sex drive (libido)
• Discomfort during sex
• Urinary and sleeping problems
• Problems with concentration or memory

Benefits

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) offers several benefits for women, especially during menopause and beyond. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Relief from Menopausal Symptoms:
  • Hot Flashes: Reduction in the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.
  • Night Sweats: Decrease in night sweats, improving sleep quality.
  • Vaginal Dryness: Alleviation of vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort.
  • Painful Intercourse: Improvement in vaginal lubrication and reduction in pain during intercourse.
• Bone Health:
  • Prevention of Osteoporosis: Increased bone density and reduced risk of fractures.
  • Improved Bone Strength: Helps maintain bone strength and structure.
• Mood and Mental Health:
  • Mood Stability: Reduction in mood swings, irritability, and depressive symptoms.
  • Improved Mental Clarity: Enhanced cognitive function and mental clarity.
  • Reduction in Anxiety: Decrease in anxiety and overall emotional well-being.
• Cardiovascular Health:
  • Reduced Risk of Heart Disease: Potential reduction in the risk of heart disease when started early in menopause.
  • Improved Cholesterol Levels: Positive effects on lipid profiles, including increased HDL (good cholesterol) and decreased LDL (bad cholesterol).
• Sexual Health:
  • Increased Libido: Improvement in sexual desire and responsiveness.
  • Enhanced Sexual Function: Better overall sexual satisfaction and performance.
• Skin and Hair:
  • Healthier Skin: Improvement in skin elasticity and hydration.
  • Reduced Hair Thinning: Potential reduction in hair thinning and loss.
• Sleep Quality:
  • Better Sleep Patterns: Reduction in insomnia and improved sleep quality.
• Urinary Health:
  • Improved Bladder Function: Reduction in urinary incontinence and frequency.
• Overall Quality of Life:
  • Increased Energy Levels: Improved energy and reduced fatigue.
  • Enhanced Well-Being: Overall improvement in quality of life and daily functioning.

How is Hormone Replacement Therapy Administered?

Hormone Replacement Therapy can be administered in the form of:

• Creams
• Gels
• Injections
• Pellets