Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for Women
Hormones are molecules that are synthesized and secreted by specialized cells in the body. They are chemical messengers that, through complex biological systems, are released into the blood stream and communicate with tissues throughout the body to affect different biological processes. They play a crucial role in our growth and development, metabolism, sexual function and reproduction, tissue repair, protein synthesis, as well as our mood, energy levels, and sleep, just to name a few.
As we age, we have a natural decline in hormone production (as well as receptor-site sensitivity). This is particularly true for women as they pass through menopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) simply is the replenishment of hormones lost through the aging process. Hormone-related conditions such as menopause, osteoporosis, and vaginal dryness can be alleviated by restoring one's hormones to optimal, youthful levels. This therapy is also helpful to manage other conditions like hot flashes, night sweats, sleeping problems, and mood changes. At MTN HLTH, we help our patients understand how HRT can enhance their lifestyle and optimize their longevity.
Estrogen
There are three types of estrogens found in a woman's body: Estrone, estradiol, and estriol. The levels of all of these hormones fall dramatically at the onset of menopause, which is responsible for the symptoms and detrimental health effects that follow. Estrogens play a key role in female reproductive health through all stages of life. Estrogens are also important for heart, bone, and brain health in males and females. Study after study demonstrates the astonishing beneficial effects that estrogen makes in postmenopausal women to feel better and healthier. Estrogen vastly improves the quality of life for women by making them feel more youthful and energized, have better muscle tone, fewer wrinkles, stronger and shinier hair, and a more enjoyable, satisfying sex life after menopause. Estrogen can safely be taken in an oral pill, skin patch, gel, or cream form.
Progesterone
Progesterone is another female hormone of equal importance as is estrogen for the aging woman, although it is commonly overlooked. It is produced by the ovaries and is used in nature to balance estrogen. Progesterone protects against uterine cancer, breast cancer, osteoporosis and heart disease. As estrogen's dancing partner, it opposes estrogen and works together with estrogen at different tissues in the body. It too can safely and effectively relieve menopausal symptoms, protect against cancer, diminish osteoporosis risk, and improve overall well-being. Natural progesterone enhances the action of estrogen as these two hormones were meant to work together to maintain normal hormonal balance.
How do I know if HRT is right for me?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for hormone replacement therapy at MTN HLTH:
-Hot flashes
-Night sweats
-Fatigue
-Mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
-Irritability
-Memory problems
-Weight gain
-Sleep problems
We're excited to help educate you on the benefits of HRT here at MTN HLTH.