Hormone therapy has many benefits for women entering menopause, particularly in the form of systemic estrogen. As our bodies transition through menopause, we can experience a variety of menopausal symptoms. Thankfully, we don’t have to suffer through menopause with the beauty of medicine and treatment available today.
Systemic estrogen is the most effective treatment for some menopausal symptoms. It comes in a variety of treatment forms, including skin patches, pill, spray, gel, or cream. (Source) Systemic estrogen can help alleviate vaginal symptoms, such as soreness, irritation, burning, dryness, and discomfort during intercourse. It can also relieve night sweats and hot flashes during menopause.
Osteoporosis is an added concern for women experiencing menopause. While some doctors still prescribe estrogen as a preventative measure against osteoporosis, many more doctors are prescribing bisphosphonates to help treat osteoporosis. If you’re currently taking estrogen to treat osteoporosis, you may benefit from switching to bisphosphonates. Talk with your doctor to see which medication may be best for you.
Long-term systemic estrogen therapy is not recommended. However, some research shows that taking system estrogen early in your postmenopausal years can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Women who still have their uterus and who are experiencing menopause are often prescribed systemic estrogen along with progesterone or progestin (synthesized progesterone). Studies show that estrogen without progesterone can lead to growth of your uterine wall, an increased risk of uterine cancer. Of course, women who do not have their uterus anymore are not at risk of developing uterine cancer.
As with any medical treatment, there are great benefits to consider. Our ReVital Women’s Clinic care team is committed to helping treat your menopausal symptoms with the right treatment for you. Our ReVital team put together a FREE eBook available here to help you understand our different types of hormone therapy, including systemic estrogen. Download your FREE eBook today and schedule your next appointment with our ReVital team.