Replacing Your Hormones With HRT

As people age, the body changes, and so do the hormonal levels. In women, estrogen and progesterone are impacted, and in men, testosterone levels. Doctors recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when hormone levels are lowered and to manage various signs and symptoms. HRT can be of benefit to both, men and women.

Benefits of HRT for women

After menopause, a woman’s estrogen and progesterone levels change. HRT is used in postmenopausal women who experience menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and night sweats. Besides treating menopausal symptoms, HRT helps to reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and colon cancer. HRT can also improve one’s mood and mental health and joint pains. Those who use HRT have reduced tooth loss and a better survival rate.

Advantages of HRT for men

Testosterone levels reduce as men get older and HRT can help in improving testosterone levels. Testosterone is important for sperm production, muscle strength, sex drive, bone density, and facial and body hair. Fat distribution and red blood cell production also require testosterone. Hypogonadism, a condition where low testosterone levels can be managed with HRT.

Improving your estrogen and progesterone

HRT for women consists of 2 types. These include estrogen therapy and estrogen plus progesterone therapy. Estrogen therapy can be given as a pill, patch, cream, spray, gel, or vaginal ring. The combined therapy comes as either pills or patches. The healthcare provider will recommend the best type of HRT for every patient.

Estrogen therapy versus combined therapy

For women, the use of HRT depends on whether a woman has a uterus. The combined therapy is given to the patient if a uterus is present. If a woman had a hysterectomy or uterus removal, estrogen therapy is prescribed only.

Making a change to your testosterone level

Men’s HRT includes various types. Some types of HRT include testosterone injections, gel, or patches.
Regardless of any hormone therapy mode, HRT has potential disadvantages, and discussing with the doctor is advisable.

Is HRT needed for life?

Every patient’s treatment differs. The length of using HRT depends on the patient’s symptoms and response to treatment. The use of HRT has no limit but speaking to the doctor about the duration of treatment is necessary. When taking HRT, always do regular check-ups to monitor the treatment as HRT also has accompanying risks.

Planning to improve your hormones

HRT has many benefits for women and men facing decreased estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels. HRT is taken as long as needed with simultaneous monitoring of hormone levels. The duration of taking HRT depends on the intensity of symptoms and response to the therapy. Discuss with the healthcare provider about HRT and the benefits and risks.