Anyone who gets a period will likely go throughmenopausetoo.
But just because its a natural process, doesnt mean it doesnt suck.
If you count yourself among the confused or simply the curious, read on for some hormone therapy basics.
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What is HT and why is it controversial?
If youve had a hysterectomy, it’s possible for you to take estrogen-only HT.
Thats a lot of people.
(Oh, and dementia too.)
Practically overnight, women dumped their pills, and doctors stopped prescribing them.
The biggest one, she says, is that most participants were older than 60.
A raft ofstudiespublished since have also suggested as much.
(More on that below.)
What are the benefits of HT?
Hot flashes andnight sweatsare the number one menopause complaint.
(That said, thereareother treatment optionsmore on that in a bit.)
Thats up to you, based on how much theyre disturbing your well-being and daily functioning.
I dont pick whats moderate or severe for people, Dr. Christmas tells SELF.
I let them tell me.
What bang out of HT should you take?
If that doesnt do the jobor you dont like using onevaginal estrogen would be the next step.
How long should you use HT?
That depends on why youre using it.
If youre taking a vaginal product, Dr. Christmas says, theres no time limit.
Its a different story if youre on systemic HT for hot flashes.
What about the risks?
Despite that risk, some people may still prefer a pill over a patch or gel, both Drs.
And other times, Dr. Streicher notes, the choice comes down to insurance coverage.
(Hormones arenotapproved for preventing heart trouble, though.)
Dr. Streicher says that extra risk is believed to be due to the progestin used in the WHI.
Who should avoid using HT?
Some people really shouldnt use menopausal HT.
How do I know if I should take HT?
(Here are somecooling productsthat might help.)
She went through something of a medical odyssey for her debilitating hot flashes and other symptoms.
McCarthy ultimately opted for an estrogen/progestin skin patch.
Ive never had another hot flash…. And its slowed down my bone loss, she says.
Unfortunately, Dr. Streicher says, many doctors lack education and training in menopause.
Its not a guarantee theyll be an expert, Dr. Streicher says.
But its a good place to start.
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