What is hormone replacement?
Hormone replacement, also known as hormone replacement therapy, is a cutting-edge medical treatment that uses medications containing hormones to replace those you’ve lost as a result of getting older.
Sometimes, it’s used to ease uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. It can also prevent bone loss in postmenopausal women and assist men who are struggling with low testosterone levels.
What are the benefits of hormone replacement?
Hormone replacement offers an array of benefits, including:
- Reduced menopausal symptoms
- Increased energy levels
- Fracture prevention
- Better sleep
There’s also some evidence to suggest hormone replacement can lower your risk of dementia and/or heart disease. In men, hormone replacement can encourage the production of testosterone, easing symptoms like fatigue and erectile dysfunction.
Is hormone replacement safe?
Hormone replacement is safe and well-tolerated, but there are risks.
For example, a clinical trial conducted using a combination estrogen-progestin pill discovered an increased risk of conditions such as:
- Blood clots
- Stroke
- Breast cancer
These risks vary depending on your age and health history. Your Medtopia Medical Clinic provider can help you determine whether or not hormone replacement is the right option for you.
Am I a good candidate for hormone replacement?
Only a trained physician like those at Medtopia Medical Clinic can determine if you’re a good candidate for hormone replacement. That said, if you’re struggling to cope with uncomfortable symptoms of the natural aging process such as severe hot flashes, a loss in bone mass, or vaginal dryness, you can probably benefit.
Before making a recommendation, your Medtopia Medical Clinic provider conducts a thorough physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you questions about the symptoms you’re experiencing. They might also order a series of laboratory tests or X-rays to rule out other potential problems.
Are there different types of hormone replacement?
There are several types of hormone replacement, including:
- Oral medications
- Skin patches
- Estrogen gel
- Hormonal implants
- Vaginal estrogen
- Testosterone creams
The type of hormone replacement you’ll most benefit from depends on your health history, the severity of your symptoms, and your goals for treatment.
Don’t let the natural aging process keep you from living your best life. If you’re interested in learning more about hormone replacement, request an appointment at Medtopia Medical Clinic by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling tool today.
