Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves supplementing hormones that decline naturally with age. The goal is relieving unpleasant menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, disrupted sleep, and mood changes.
However, research shows HRT does carry health risks that should be considered before starting treatment:
- Long-term HRT may increase breast cancer risk, especially with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Some major studies found:
- A 26% increased risk of breast cancer with combined HRT after 5 years
- A return to normal risk 5 years after stopping
- HRT containing estrogen alone or with progestin can promote growth of estrogen-sensitive uterine tumors. So it's mainly prescribed for women without a uterus.
- Studies link HRT to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and blood clots, particularly in the first year of treatment. The Women's Health Initiative study was halted early because of these increased health risks.
- Side effects like fluid retention, vaginal bleeding, nausea, and headaches may occur
However, some
bioidentical hormone treatments may provide a safer alternative for some women.
Hormone Wellness Center offers customized bioidentical HRT for menopausal women to relieve symptoms while minimizing risks. Their board-certified providers specialize in hormone balancing and optimization for improved wellbeing.
Of course, every woman responds differently to HRT. Thorough discussions with your doctor can help determine if benefits might outweigh potential risks
for you personally. Key factors to consider:
- Age when starting HRT
- Personal and family health history
- Specific hormone therapy type and dosage
- Lifestyle and risk factors
If you decide to start HRT, regular follow-up is crucial for monitoring treatment effects and conducting necessary health screenings. Report any unusual or concerning symptoms promptly. Input from both patient and provider ensures optimal outcomes.
I aimed to provide a balanced perspective on why hormone replacement can be problematic for some patients. Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this draft further. I can avoid definitive claims about medical treatments and focus on outlining evidence-based pros and cons if preferred.