Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective treatment for women between the ages of 45 and 54 in the stages of perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause using bioidentical hormones. Forty-four percent of postmenopausal women have utilized this medical treatment to mitigate symptoms like vaginal dryness, hot flashes, insomnia, reduced libido, and night sweats. Here's what you should know. 

A Brief Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy

What are the different types of hormone therapy?

Hormone therapy is available in various forms. It can be delivered throughout the body using a prescription pill, patch, gel, cream, spray, or vaginal ring. These methods are used to distribute estrogen and progesterone that are the same or similar to hormones naturally created in the body to regulate specific genitourinary symptoms. A specialist can help you decide which type of treatment is best for your unique needs. 

Are there side effects?

About 5 to 10 percent of women who use this medical treatment experience side effects. Although they are often temporary, you should discuss any concerns with a medical provider. Common side effects for women taking HRT are uterine bleeding, nausea, breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, dizziness, headaches, fluid retention in arms and legs, and blurred vision.

Who is a good candidate for HRT?

Short-term HRT is recommended for women who experience moderate to severe symptoms and do not have a medical history of heart attack, stroke, high risk or history of blood clots, and breast or endometrial cancer. Your doctor can help you decide if the benefits of this therapy outweigh the potential risks, given your age, current health, and previous medical records. 

Are there additional ways to ease menopausal symptoms?

Though menopausal symptoms can be uncomfortable, you can take several steps to alleviate them. Avoiding certain foods like spicy or sugary dishes, caffeine, and alcohol can help curb hot flashes, moodiness, and night sweats. You can help your body realign to its natural rhythm by keeping a regular sleep schedule, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and quitting smoking. Finally, eating a healthy diet and getting 30 minutes of exercise a day will help recalibrate your body from the inside out, while relaxation or mindfulness techniques like meditation and yoga can prevent restless sleep. 

If you're experiencing menopause and are interested in participating in a clinical trial, consult with Chattanooga Medical Research in Tennessee. This trusted and respected research facility is changing the face of medicine through its clinical trials. Since 2006, this privately owned facility has followed all protocols to ensure every trial is conducted safely and fairly. This skilled research team includes internal physician investigators, physician assistants, ACRP-certified researchers, certified quality-assurance specialists, and board-certified OBGYN medical professionals. To find more effective and obtainable medical treatments, this facility uses diverse test subjects to achieve results that are inclusive in representation. Learn more about how you can participate in a clinical trial by visiting them online or calling (423) 648-7794.