Estrogen Replacement: Are You a Good Candidate?

When inquiring about hormone replacement therapy, you may be wondering if it’s the right thing for you. But, how do you determine that?

Before deciding whether hormone replacement therapy is the right move for you, let’s take a look at the benefits. Each benefit depends on what kind of therapy you’re going to get. For women looking for estrogen replacement therapy, there are a few different options. The first option would be systemic hormone therapy, which is a pill, skin patch, gel, or cream. This is a great form of night sweats therapy or menopause therapy in general. By the time a woman reaches menopause, she will only produce about one-third the amount of estrogen she produced during her childbearing years, meaning this therapy can be a big help.

The second option would be low-dose vaginal products, which are typically sold over the counter but more effectively prescribed by a doctor. These products can help with urinary symptoms are other vaginal symptoms but don’t address hot flashes and can’t be used as a menopausal hormone therapy.

Now that you are aware of the options available, should you consider estrogen replacement therapy? Anyone experiencing moderate to severe hot flashes or other symptoms for menopause, anyone who has lost bone mass or aren’t having luck with other treatments, and anyone who has stopped having their period before the age of 40 is a perfect candidate for the hormone therapy.

If you fall under the categories listed above, you’re in luck. Keep in mind, though, that anyone who has a history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, blood clots, or stroke should not be using hormone therapy. Women who smoke cigarettes on a daily basis should also avoid this kind of treatment.

Before going through with any type of therapy, speak with your doctor and ask for their suggestion. They will be able to take a look at your medical history and sit down with you to discuss your options.