Hormone Therapy & Menopause
Taking hormone therapy to relieve the symptoms of menopause is one of the most important health decisions a woman in mid-life can make. Hormone therapy is a treatment with drugs that contain estrogen alone or the combination of estrogen plus progestin. As research findings are released, we can use them to help us have an open discussion with our doctors about what is best for our health. The Women’s Health Initiative has brought us closer to answering vital questions about both the risks and benefits of hormone therapy.
What was found?
Hormone therapy can help with hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings and bone loss, but it also carries risks. For some women, hormone therapy may increase their chance of getting blood clots, heart attacks, stroke, breast cancer, gall bladder disease, and dementia. Many women who are in the early stages of menopause and are having a lot of symptoms feel better when they take hormones. Hormone therapy may be a way to get over the symptoms of menopause if taken for only a short time and in the smallest amount. We are still trying to learn more about the long- and short-term effects of hormone therapies on women’s health.
What should you do?
Discuss these findings with your doctor in regard to your own health.
Remember that you should not take hormone therapy to prevent heart disease, and you should talk with your doctor about other ways to protect your heart. If you take hormone therapy to help prevent osteoporosis, ask your doctor if you should take a different medicine to help preserve bone and slow down bone loss.
If you decide to use hormones, use them at the lowest dose that helps and for the shortest time needed. Check with your doctor every 3 to 6 months to see if you still need them.
Remember
When using hormone therapy for menopause
Use at the lowest dose that helps
Use for the shortest time needed
Check with your doctor every 3 to 6 months to see if you still need them.
Content Courtesy : www.4woman.gov
^{The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.}