What are the advantages of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Ageing is a natural process in human beings. As we age certain body functions begin to slow down. Women approaching the menopausal age especially see a decrease in their essential hormones. This causes discomfort in women when estrogen and progesterone hormones begin to decrease. Well known symptoms are hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Hormone replacement therapy gets rid of the unease associated with menopause.
In women the ovaries are the suppliers of estrogen and progesterone. Near the age of 45 these hormones are produced in lower levels because the ovaries begin to shrink. It is at this time that a doctor prescribes hormone replacement therapy to reduce the uneasiness associated with menopause. This therapy is usually given for a period of one year to begin with. It can be extended to a maximum of five years under the supervision of a doctor.
The positive effects of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
- The first positive step is the relief felt by women from hot flashes. Hot flashes give a warm feeling on the face and all over the body together with a little redness. This occurs because of the expansion of blood vessels.
- HRT gives relief to women suffering from night sweats. These are hot flashes that occur during sleep.
- HRT prevents osteoporosis. Calcium essential for stronger bones is better absorbed when post menstrual women take estrogen treatment.
- Hormonal creams give relief to women suffering from vaginal dryness.
- Improved skin tone and absence of wrinkles is noticeable in women taking hormone replacement therapy. It also strengthens nails and decreases the loss of teeth.
- HRT improves the general mood of the person.
The different forms of estrogen and progesterone treatment
- Estrogen is available in pill form.
- Progesterone is available in both pill and capsule form.
- Estrogen is also available as a cream.
- Estrogen is available as a patch to be applied to the skin.
- Estrogen is available as a vaginal ring and also as a tablet.
- Progesterone is also available as vaginal gel.
Estrogen when given alone is called unopposed estrogen therapy. It is usual to combine progesterone with estrogen. Estrogen is taken daily while progesterone is taken for two weeks in a month. Gels and skin patches are used if the hormones are to be given in a mild form. Some doctors also prescribe hormone tablets for reversing the effects of aging especially of muscles. Additional hormones are beneficial for a smooth transition to a comfortable old age.