Hormones control and affect almost every system in the body. The reproductive hormones are very influential on women’s health – both progesterone and estrogen levels change throughout a woman’s lifetime. When hormone levels dwindle, especially during perimenopause and menopause, many women experience undesirable symptoms. At FEM Women’s Wellness, we offer female hormone replacement therapy (HRT) at our clinic in the Reno and Lake Tahoe, NV, area.
Estrogen and progesterone are two of the main female reproductive hormones that regulate the menstruation cycles. Most women experience a sudden drop in estrogen production at menopause, which usually occurs between ages 45-55. Menopause can come with uncomfortable symptoms due to the low levels of estrogen. These symptoms can include:
- Night sweats
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Insomnia
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Muscle and joint pain
When menopausal symptoms are severe, HRT can be beneficial. For women who still have their uterus, a combination of estrogen and progesterone can be used. Women without a uterus can receive estrogen alone without risk of uterine cancer.
Is HRT Right for You?
Women experiencing discomfort from menopausal symptoms may get relief with HRT within 10 years of their last menstrual period. There are some health risks linked to taking estrogen – there is a higher risk for breast cancer with any female HRT therapy, and a risk of uterine cancer if estrogen is taken without progesterone. However, when low doses are used for the shortest period of time possible, HRT can provide relief from moderate to severe menopausal symptoms.
There are various options for hormone replacement therapy, from oral medications and patches to creams and rings. For many women, HRT can be a game-changer, improving their physical, emotional and mental health during their menopausal years.
If you are experiencing uncomfortable menopausal symptoms, it may be time to explore whether hormone replacement therapy is right for you. To learn more about HRT, come see us at FEM Women’s Wellness. We offer a wide variety of support and treatment for women experiencing symptoms due to hormone imbalance – contact our center in the Reno/Lake Tahoe area to schedule your appointment.