Hormone Replacement Specialist

What is hormone replacement therapy?

When you reach menopause, your body reduces its production of certain hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) supplements these hormones, which can improve many of the symptoms associated with menopause.

Estrogen regulates the calcium in your body to strengthen your bones and raises your levels of HDL cholesterol (the good kind) to protect against atherosclerosis. Progesterone manages the thickness of your uterine lining, keeping it healthy and cancer-free.

What are the benefits of HRT?

Hormone replacement therapy is beneficial if you are experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal and vulvar dryness, night sweats, and lack of sexual desire.

If you entered menopause before age 40, HRT may also minimize your risk for osteoporosis, heart disease, anxiety, and depression.

What are the different forms of HRT?

The specialists at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN off a variety of hormone replacement therapy options, from pills and tablets to creams and gels. When it comes to HRT, there are two basic formulations: systemic and low-dose vaginal.

Systemic HRT is available as pills, patches, gels, creams, or sprays. It offers the following benefits:

• Controls hot flashes and night sweats
• Alleviates vaginal dryness, burning, and uncomfortable sex
• May protect against osteoporosis

Low-dose vaginal HRT comes in the form of tablets, creams, or vaginal rings. It can:

• Alleviate vaginal dryness, burning, and uncomfortable sex
• Alleviate urinary symptoms
• Minimize systemic absorption due to its local application

Is HRT for everyone?

Menopause is a natural stage of life and you may not need hormone replacement. You should consider HRT if you experience moderate to severe symptoms of menopause that interfere with your quality of life. You may also need HRT if you have osteoporosis that is not responding to other therapies.

You should not take HRT if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant or have a history of:

• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Blood clots
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Liver disease

Your doctor at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN can help you decide whether HRT is right for you based on your personal and family history, the severity of your symptoms, and your risk factors.  

If you’re looking for relief from the symptoms of menopause, call or book an appointment online today.