Menopause can be a very confusing time for many women. This transition period brings about irritability, hot flashes, vaginal dryness leading to painful sex, trouble sleeping, and even depression for many women. A reduced level of estrogen production brings about these symptoms. The menopause period often begins between the ages of 45 of 55. It usually lasts between 7 to 14 years, depending on lifestyle factors(e.g., smoking), race, ethnicity. However, if you are undergoing menopause and wish to alleviate menopausal symptoms, there is hope in the form of Hormone Replacement Therapy(HRT). If you are amongst people who are not conversant with hormone therapy, then this article will enlighten you and give you some insight into whether or not this would be a good option for you.
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a form of treatment that replaces the hormones naturally produced by your body to restore it to its natural balance. HRT can vary depending on the type of hormones being replaced, but most commonly includes estrogen and progesterone, which are essential in regulating menstruation cycles and other processes in the female body.
Women most commonly use hormone replacement therapy in the post-menopausal phase or have had their ovaries removed due to cancer treatment. It may also be prescribed for those with hypogonadism, a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone. This condition can include decreased sex drive, fatigue, and muscle loss.
Signs that you may need hormone replacement therapy:
- Hot flushes
Hot flushes are one of the most telling signs that you may need hormone replacement therapy. They are episodes of intense heat that can cause sweating, a racing heart, and dizziness. Hot flushes can occur at any time but are most common during sleep or when changing body temperature, such as bathing in water. They usually last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes but can be pretty uncomfortable. It is important to note that hot flushes are not a sign of menopause, so if you are experiencing them, get checked out by your doctor.
- Vaginal dryness
Another common symptom of menopause is vaginal dryness; This can cause discomfort during sex, when inserting a tampon, or even when just going about your day-to-day activities. Vaginal dryness is often caused by the decrease in estrogen that occurs during menopause and can lead to irritation, itching, and even pain.
- Low sex drive.
Low sex drive often accompanies other symptoms of menopause, such as vaginal dryness and hot flushes; This can be due to hormone levels and can also be caused by stress or fatigue. If you are finding that you no longer have an interest in sex, it may signify that your body needs some help getting back into balance.
- Mood swings/depression
Mood swings and depression are common during menopause and can often be attributed to the hormonal changes happening in the body. Depression is more than just feeling sad or down; it can cause feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and helplessness. If these symptoms impact your everyday life, it is essential to speak with your doctor about possible treatment options.
- Difficulty sleeping
Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom associated with menopause. It may not be easy to get sound sleep throughout the night or find yourself waking up frequently without going back to bed quickly. Insomnia can lead to fatigue which only worsens how you feel overall. If this sounds like something you’re experiencing, consult with your healthcare provider about whether HRT might help improve your sleep quality.
- Irritability
During menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly and cause a wide range of symptoms. One of the most common is irritability. You may find that you are more easily angered or upset and that your emotions are everywhere; This can be frustrating and make everyday life difficult. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy.
- Muscle loss
As we age, it is common to lose muscle mass; This can be accelerated in women who undergo menopause due to the drop in estrogen levels. Muscle loss not only makes you look and feel older but also decreases your strength and mobility. If you notice that you’re losing muscle mass despite eating right and exercising regularly, hormone replacement therapy may help prevent or reverse this trend.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it may be time for hormone replacement therapy. HRT can help restore hormonal balance and alleviate these uncomfortable side effects.