Gynecology Services - Menopausal Years - Hormone Therapy
Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life. The lower amounts of estrogen that come with menopause will cause changes in your body. The lack of estrogen can bring on symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It can also increase the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis (bone loss). Menopause is different for everyone. Some women notice little difference in their bodies or moods. Others may find it difficult to cope with their symptoms.
Your doctor may recommend hormone therapy. Hormone replacement therapy helps relieve the symptoms of menopause. It replaces female hormones no longer made by the ovaries. Hormone replacement therapy can relieve the symptoms of low estrogen-hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However the major benefits of therapy are that it prevents osteoporosis and protects against heart disease - problems that can have long term effects on your life and health. The decision to begin hormone replacement therapy depends on your:
- medical history and family history
- symptoms
- risk of bone loss
- risk of cardiovascular disease
Like most treatments, hormone replacement therapy is not free of risk. Please click here to read ACOG’s article on Hormone Therapy for detailed information on hormone therapy’s benefits and risks.
With or without hormone replacement therapy, there are things you can do to remain healthy. Eating a balanced diet (rich in calcium and low in fat), getting enough exercise, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can help reduce the rate of bone loss and protect against heart disease.