Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to relieve the symptoms of menopause. It replaces female hormones that are at a lower level as you approach the menopause.
The menopause is when a woman’s ovaries stop producing an egg every 4 weeks, which means she will no longer have monthly periods or be able to have children naturally. Normally, a menopause occurs when a woman is at her 50’s
Common symptoms of menopause:
Some of the common symptoms of menopause include;
- Night sweats
- Reduced sex drive (loss of libido)
- Mood swings
- Hot flushes
- Vaginal dryness
- Bone thinning
- Stress incontinence
The main benefit of HRT is, that it can relieve most of the menopausal symptoms.
This is also helpful in preventing weakening of bones which is a common symptom after menopause.
If you are a woman having symptoms related with the menopause, then you are advice to consult a doctor on HRT.
Some instances where HRT is not suitable for you;
- If you have a history of blood clots
- If you have a history of breast cancer, womb cancer or ovarian cancer
- If you have untreated high blood pressure
- If you have liver disease
Types of HRT:
There are several ways they can be taken, including;
- A patch that you stick on your skin
- Estrogen gel
- Tablets
- Implants
Side effects of HRT:
Some of the common side effects include;
- Headaches
- Fluid retention
- Vaginal bleeding
- Depression
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Indigestion
- Bloating
- Leg cramps
The main benefit of HRT is that it is a very effective method of controlling menopausal symptoms.
It can reduce a woman’s risk of developing osteoporosis and cancer of the colon and rectum.
HRT slightly increases the risk of developing breast, womb, and ovarian cancer and stroke.
Some of the alternative measures that can be taken to reduce some menopausal symptoms are;
- Do regular exercises
- Have a balanced diet
- Reduce your stress levels
- Reduce consumption of caffeine
- Stop smoking
- If you are experiencing vaginal dryness then try vaginal lubricant or moisturizer
Gogodoc also provides an educational series of information on various blood tests (*intended for educational purposes only. If you are experiencing symptoms, please reach out to book an online GP consultation with a Gogodoc GP.) Talk to a doctor online at a time that suits you from home with a phone or video appointment. You can easily book an appointment with GP.
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