If you’ve talked to friends, family, or conducted your own web search you may have ended up with conflicting information regarding hormone replacement. A mixture of information can make it challenging to separate fact from fiction. Read on to get the factual scoop on hormone replacement therapy and discuss it with your doctor. Our experts demolish common myths, so you have the facts to make an informed decision about your health.
Fact: The idea that HRT causes cancer is perhaps the most common myth. This misconception is based on an older, flawed study. Although it’s true that receiving more hormones than your body requires can raise the risk of certain types of cancers, HRT itself doesn’t cause cancer. Therapy with hormone replacement does not cause cancer in healthy adults with no history of hormone-sensitive cancer.
Fact: Many women believe that HRT only addresses severe symptoms. The truth is you don’t have to wait for your symptoms to become severe to start HRT. Therapy is beneficial for less severe symptoms that may disrupt your daily life. HRT is effective for relieving hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, and other symptoms related to hormone imbalance.
Fact: Even after the major changes of menopause take place, hormone imbalance can continue. Women experiencing post-menopausal symptoms can benefit from HRT. During the years after menopause, symptoms such as hot flashes tend to ease. However, due to lower estrogen levels, postmenopausal women can continue to experience uncomfortable symptoms.
Fact: An older, flawed study reported an increased risk in heart disease in women taking HRT, leading to a myth that persists. Subsequent studies reported no such association. In fact, studies have found that women taking estrogen-only HRT were less likely to develop heart disease.
Fact: Women typically enter menopause around the age of 50. However, some women experience early menopause, and for these women, HRT may help reduce the risk of heart disease and protect against osteoporosis.
Fact: You may be surprised to know that there are several types of HRT. Women can choose from oral to topical formulations. Types of HRT can be used alone or in combination to best treat your symptoms and balance your hormones.
Fact: You don’t have to suffer through the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. Although symptoms like hot flashes weight and night sweats were once thought of as a rite of passage, these symptoms can have a significant impact on your daily life. HRT is proven to be the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. You can go through menopause without major discomfort thanks to hormone replacement.
The decision to start HRT is one you make after learning all of the facts and discussing the benefits and risks with your doctor. To learn more and to schedule an appointment call our Tulsa, Oklahoma office, or book online.
