A Few Commonly Asked Questions About Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy is a form of therapy utilized by those that are currently undergoing menopause. It can alleviate a lot of the symptoms that coincide with menopause, including vaginal dryness and hot flashes, and can even work towards preventing issues that develop in tandem with menopause, like osteoporosis. You may have a few questions about hormone replacement therapy (or HRT); read on, and you will have a few answers to those questions.

What Exactly Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

During menopause, hormones generally associated with femininity, such as estrogen and progesterone drop dramatically. HRT is a process that will essentially refill or recharge those hormones in your body that it no longer makes, or whose production has significantly dropped off.

Are There Any Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Yes, there are. Among the most common side effects associated with HRT are: swelling of the breasts, rapid mood changes, vaginal bleeding, bloating, headaches, and nausea. It should be noted that this list of side effects is by no means comprehensive. If you apprehensive about the side effects that HRT can cause, it is recommended that you speak in length with your physician regarding any reservations you have about HRT due to the side effects.

Does Your Body Need Estrogen?

In a word: yes. There are many benefits of having your body continue to produce estrogen well past the age of menopause. Estrogen works to keep your eggs fertilized, but it also plays a number of other roles in the body that go far beyond simple reproduction. It helps to regulate the calcium present in your body, as well as the percentage of cholesterol in your blood stream.

Are There People Who Should Not Use HRT?

Yes, there are a number of people who should, under no circumstances, consider HRT. Among those who should not engage in HRT are: cancer patients, those individuals who have suffered from a heart attack or have a long history of heavy heart disease in their family, those who have suffered from a stroke or are at risk of suffering from a stroke, individuals that are at risk for blood clots, such as those who suffer from a Protein C deficiency, or if you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant.

If you are currently undergoing menopause and believe that you can benefit from HRT, contact a clinic such as Central Iowa OB/Gyn Specialists, PLC and discuss the matter in greater detail