Menopausal symptoms are a leading concern for women in their later years. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly utilized to gain control over certain symptoms. This process involves injecting estrogen and progesterone hormones that are bio-identical to those produced by the human body. It's believed that this form of hormone replacement therapy is safer than using synthetic hormones. However, this has yet to be substantiated by medical research. A lot of menopausal women in Phoenix, Arizona choose to use integrative medicine, such as HRT. Bio-identical hormones are viewed as more natural. It's important to have an experienced naturopathic doctor administer the hormones.
How Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Improve Menopause Symptoms
There are a variety of symptoms that menopausal women face. Each woman is different, so the symptoms will vary. HRT is known to reduce the following menopausal symptoms:
Night sweats, hot flashes, and related issues like irritability and insufficient sleep
Bone loss (slows it down)
Vaginal dryness, discomfort and pain during intercourse
Mood swings and mild symptoms of depression
What HRT Isn't Used For
Most physicians recommend HRT as a short-term solution for menopause symptoms. You'll rarely find doctors recommending this therapy to prevent chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis. It's not recommended for heart disease prevention in patients who have already gone through menopause. It also shouldn't be utilized for preventing dementia, memory loss or Alzheimer's disease.
Who Should Avoid HRT
Not everyone is a good candidate for hormone therapy. If you match any of the following criteria, you should speak with a naturopathic doctor in Phoenix about your candidacy:
You may be pregnant
You have issues with vaginal bleeding
You've had a heart attack or stroke
You've noticed blood clots
You've had breast or uterine cancer (or other certain types)
You've had liver disease or heart disease
What Are the Side Effects
It's highly important to consult with a naturopathic physician to determine if you are at special risk. The following risks increase for certain patients:
Heart attack
Stroke
Blood clots
Gall bladder diseases
Breast cancer
Your medical history and current health will play a major role in determining the potential risks of hormone replacement therapy. Other lesser symptoms may also arise, including:
Headaches
Changes in mood
Vaginal bleeding
Nausea
Bloating
Breast swelling or tenderness
