What is Hormone Replacement Therapy and How is it Done?

Menopause is a natural process in a woman's life that is marked by the decrease in circulating levels of estrogen. This decrease can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. To alleviate these symptoms, many women turn to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) at QC Kinetix Regenerative Treatment Center in Nashville, TN. HRT, also known as menopausal hormone therapy or estrogen replacement therapy, involves the administration of synthetic estrogens and progestins to replace a woman's depleting hormone levels. This type of therapy has been linked to several risks, so it is important for women to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding if HRT is right for them.

HRT can be administered in several ways, including through a patch placed on the skin or an implant with local anaesthesia. It is important to note that HRT should not be started in postmenopausal women before age 60 or within 10 years after menopause. When considering HRT, many factors should be taken into account, such as a woman's age, her risks, her preferences, the treatment options available, and the cost of the product. Women should also be aware that HRT has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in thin women and an increased risk of ovarian cancer in all women who use it.

Additionally, there is an association between HRT and an increased risk of ulcerative colitis. If HRT is contraindicated or not desired, other treatments such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors may be considered. Products containing estrogen are also effective treatments for controlling hot flashes and the symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy. In conclusion, hormone replacement therapy can be an effective treatment for menopausal symptoms, but it is important for women to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding if it is right for them.