Menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can provide relief from troublesome menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. However, HRT is not appropriate for every woman. Considerations regarding the use of HRT include:
Contraindications:
- Women with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk for breast cancer should avoid HRT, as evidence suggests estrogen can promote tumor growth.
- Women with other hormone-sensitive cancers like uterine cancer should also avoid HRT.
- Women with active liver disease or liver dysfunction are typically advised not to take HRT.
- Women who experience unexplained vaginal bleeding should not take estrogen until the cause is evaluated.
- Women who have had a stroke, heart attack, or other cardiovascular event or are at high risk are typically advised against HRT due to increased risk of cardiovascular complications.
Risks versus benefits:
For some women, potential benefits of HRT may outweigh risks after discussing individually with a healthcare provider:
- Postmenopausal women under age 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset have more favorable risk-benefit ratio.
- Low doses of hormone therapies may reduce risks.
- Local vaginal estrogen avoids systemic effects for genitourinary symptoms.
- Close monitoring and reassessment over time determines continued use.
Hormone Harmony Clinic offers personalized
hormone replacement therapy and wellness programs to help women address menopause concerns. Our caring staff works closely with patients to determine if and which HRT options are suitable based on medical history and priorities. We offer cutting edge bioidentical hormone therapies to relieve symptoms while considering your unique health needs and risks. Contact us today for a consultation.
Alternatives to systemic HRT:
For women who should not or prefer not to take systemic HRT, some alternatives to explore include:
- Vaginal estrogen - Low-dose topical estrogen for urogenital symptoms
- Lifestyle changes - Diet, exercise, stress reduction
- Mind-body practices - Yoga, meditation, acupuncture
- Prescription medications - Low-dose antidepressants or antiseizure medications for hot flashes
The decision to pursue HRT is complex with both potential benefits and risks to consider on an individual basis with your healthcare provider. For some women, HRT provides needed relief, while for others the risks outweigh potential benefits. Thorough evaluation and open conversations about treatment options, including alternative approaches, is advised to determine what is suitable based on your unique medical history and priorities.