One of the most widespread applications of the hormone replacement therapy is to help women cope with menopause. As women approach the mid-40s to early 50s, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone start to decline and overall hormonal imbalance occurs. Menopause is the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for a year. It usually comes hand in hand with certain unpleasant symptoms significantly easened with the help of HRT.
To start with, let us discuss which symptoms does the National HRT easen in cases of women’s menopause. Common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, joint pain, and decline of sexual desire. For many women, symptoms of menopause are not that acute and no treatment is needed. In cases when symptoms do become a bit more troublesome, HRT may help balance levels of hormones and thus alleviate symptoms.
Possible Side Effects Of Hormone Replacement Therapy
While HRT is known to ease unpleasant symptoms of menopause, there are also some health issues to consider before taking the medication. To minimize the risk, your doctor may start with a very low dose to see if your symptoms improve. The most current recommendation by experts is to use the lowest dose of hormones necessary for the shortest period of time. Below are some of the most common side effects women may experience as a result of HRT.
Here are some of the risks to consider before opting for HRT treatment:
- Circulatory and respiratory systems: HRT is generally not prescribed for women who have previously experienced blood clots problems or heart stroke as these are known to increase chances of heart disease and stroke.
- Reproductive system and sexual health: for those having vaginal discomfort during the intercourse, HRT may significantly help to bring the pleasures of sex back. However, HRT may also cause vaginal spotting or bleeding and this shall be considered.
- Digestive and excretory systems: such things as bloating, fluid retention, and nausea are known to happen as a side effect of HRT. One may also have urinary incontinence which is incredibly embarrassing and uncomfortable issue.
- Central nervous system: scientists still continue to research the effect of HRT on the central nervous system, and especially in what comes to dementia and its causes. One may consider the risks of this disease too.
One of the most serious diseases hormone replacement therapy may cause is cancer. Even though the results of the studies are still conflicting and not ultimate, there is still a chance of HRT to prove even more harmful than symptoms of menopause. The only thing to conclude from this is that before binding to any kind of hormone treatment one should consult a GP as well as other doctors to make sure that there are no additional risks associated with HRT.
All in all, hormone replacement therapy is one of the most efficient and fast ways to ease the unpleasant symptoms caused by menopause women usually experience at their 40s-50s. To make sure that HRT brings more benefits than disadvantages one has to consult with doctors and make sure that current health situation is appropriate for this very kind of treatment.
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