5 Benefits Of Hormone Replacement Therapy For Menopause

Women’s hormonal changes during menopause can cause unpleasant physical symptoms and sometimes increase the risk of chronic medical conditions. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help replace the estrogen the body stops producing with age. As a result, it may help improve both quality of life and overall health among menopausal women. 

If you are considering hormone replacement therapy for menopause, we’ll provide a brief overview of the potential benefits below to help you decide whether the procedure is right for you. 

What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy? 

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a broad term and can refer to various medical treatments. For menopause specifically, however, hormone replacement therapy typically involves using estrogen and sometimes progesterone to help relieve symptoms of menopause. Hormone therapy works by replacing the estrogen your body naturally stops producing with age. 

There are two main types of hormone replacement therapy: systemic and low-dose. Systemic hormone therapy contains a higher dose of estrogen and is more often used to treat symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, itching, burning, and discomfort during sex. Low-dose vaginal products contain less estrogen and are typically only used to treat vaginal and urinary symptoms related to menopause. 

Estrogen and progesterone can be administered in various fashions such as pills, skin patches, rings, creams, gels, sprays, and foams. 

Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy For Menopause 

Relieves Symptoms Of Menopause 

Menopause can cause several unpleasant symptoms, including: 

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Depression 
• Dry skin, eyes, and mouth 

The combined physical and emotional toll of menopause can be overwhelming for many women. In many cases, hormone replacement therapy greatly relieves symptoms, increasing your quality of life. 

Reduced Risk Of Osteoporosis 

Due to estrogen deficiency, women’s risk of osteoporosis increases after menopause. Hormone replacement therapy has become an increasingly popular form of preventative care to decrease the risk of not only osteoporosis but related issues such as bone fractures. 

Various studies have found a link between low-dose hormone replacement therapy and a reduced risk of osteoporosis-related health conditions. In fact, HRT can reduce your risk of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures up to 30%. Studies have also shown that low-dose hormone therapy helps prevent the loss of spine and hip bone mass density in early postmenopausal women. 

Lowers Your Risk Of Diabetes

Your risk of diabetes rises after menopause, and some studies indicate that HRT could potentially help mitigate this risk. HRT improves insulin sensitivity, possibly making you less likely to develop diabetes. If you are pre-diabetic, ask your doctor whether HRT could be a viable treatment route for you. 

There is also evidence hormone replacement therapy helps diabetic women better manage the condition. One study, for example, found that women undergoing HRT had better glycemic control. 

Maintain Your Sex Drive

A loss of sex drive is a common complaint amongst menopausal women. Diminished libido is often more than just a source of frustration – it can hurt self-esteem and self-image and sometimes cause strife in romantic relationships. 

Restoring your libido is a significant benefit of hormone replacement therapy for menopause. According to one study, HRT can cause an increased interest in sex – as much as 44% higher. If you are concerned about your low sex drive during menopause, talk with your doctor about HRT. 

Reduced Risk Of Certain Cancers

Some studies indicate that HRT may help lower the risk of colorectal cancer in menopausal women. If you have a family history of colon cancer or are at a heightened risk for other reasons, HRT may be a good form of preventative care, depending on your current health and medical history. 

One study found a 17% decreased risk of colorectal cancer among postmenopausal women who underwent some form of HRT. Another study was even more promising, finding a 33% reduced risk of colon cancer among postmenopausal women who had recently undergone HRT.  

Are There Risks Associated With Hormone Therapy? 

Hormone replacement therapy is not safe for everyone. Your doctor will carefully go over your medical history before starting HRT to ensure the procedure is safe for you. They will also monitor your health and hormone levels closely during HRT. 

Hormone replacement therapy may increase your risk of stroke, blood clots, and certain cancers. However, starting at a low dose and getting regular mammograms and pelvic exams can help mitigate these risks. Every patient is different. Your doctor can help determine whether the potential benefits of HRT would outweigh the risks, given your circumstances.  

Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy: The Bottom Line 

For postmenopausal women, hormone replacement therapy can have several benefits. This includes both relieving basic symptoms of menopause and possibly reducing your risk for serious medical conditions that become more likely with age. A consultation with a medical professional can help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for HRT. 

Interested in HRT? At CORR, our team has experience providing innovative medical treatment and comprehensive therapies tailored to individual patients’ needs. Reach out today to learn more.