Hormone replacement therapy is the administration of estrogen and progestin in the body. It is done to alleviate symptoms of menopause and to protect against osteoporosis (in postmenopausal women especially). It was earlier considered a standard treatment for women who were experiencing hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. However, it is no more considered a safe option to opt for.
Side effects and dangers of hormone replacement therapy
Attitude towards Hormone Replacement Therapy abruptly changed in 2002 when it was found out that it posed more risks for postmenopausal women. Doctors became less likely to prescribe it after that revelation and hence its recommendation discontinued.
Hormone replacement therapy’ may exceed its benefits. The study found that women on this therapy of combined estrogen plus progestin had experienced an increased number of strokes, heart attacks, blood clots, cardiovascular diseases, breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
The common side effects experienced by women include diarrhea, upset stomach, bloating, headache, nervousness, appetite changes, swelling of body parts, acne and black or blue patches on the skin. Many women also experienced a number of uncommon side effects which included light colored stool, dark colored urine, fever, skin rashes, appetite losses, unusual bleeding, severe depression, yellowing of eyes and skin, abdominal pains and double vision.
A woman’s body cannot assimilate artificial hormones effectively which results in worse problems than their originally were. Women who underwent the therapy showed higher heart rate as compared to those who were only on estrogen. The treatment does reduce the symptoms of menopause and also boost bone density, defend against heart diseases and strokes and delays the start of dementia. Some treatments include the use of HGH injections.
The therapy’s total abandonment has lead to an increase of hormonal inequity, sexual issues and hot flashes in women. Hence, alternative methods for increasing the estrogen levels in the female body are being tried. These alternative methods include the use of black cohash, herbal supplements and vitamins. In addition to the aforementioned correct diet, work out and good life-style habits are critical for post-menopausal women.
