As a woman reaches menopause, the level of estrogen falls, bringing in bodily discomforts. The most common symptoms are vaginal dryness and hot flashes. This can cause pain during sexual intercourse and result in sweating excessively at night. Although the menopause is a normal biological process, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective way to suppress the worst of the symptoms.
In some women, the symptoms do not visibly show and might go away without any form of therapy. However, if they cause unbearable discomfort, consider one of the following HRT procedures. They not only relieve pain but also bring down the hormonal imbalance in the body.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing an HRT to Use
A woman’s body undergoes different changes when approaching menopause. HRT treatment aims to balance the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Others require supplementary sex hormones owing to the intensity of the symptoms. The following are some of the factors influencing the type of HRT to use.
- Symptoms depicted – women with vagina itchiness can use creams for a faster reaction. If it is sweating, they can use pills or any other medication that helps alleviate the discomfort.
- Allergy – some women react to different chemical compounds. Before administration, ensure that the medication doesn’t affect normal body functioning.
- Type of medication – choose among pills, creams, gels, and skin patches. Each has its advantages and may work faster to alleviate the situation.
Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Estrogen Pills
These are the most common form of HRT as they are self-administered and widely available. A tablet per day is enough for therapy, allowing women to carry on with their daily errands. Both estrogen and estrogen/progesterone HRT come in pills.
Pros
- It is the most popular form of menopausal hormone therapy.
- Easily administered.
Cons
Chances of blood clots are higher in HRT pills than in the other therapy procedures.
Skin Patches
These are also a common therapy procedure where the patient sticks them on their body. However, the patches must be replaced after a few days to maintain their effect on the hormonal imbalance.
Pros
- Convenient as they do not require daily checks.
- Have fewer side effects compared to other HRT procedures, improving its effectiveness.
Cons
Redness or skin irritation, and might leave a sticky mark when removing it.
Topical Treatments (Gel, Cream, Spray)
Topical treatments are an increasingly growing trend among women as they are easy to use. However, they must be applied to the skin at least once a day. For a good outcome, talk to a physician to get the best for the condition.
Pros
- Easy and convenient to apply.
- Reduces the chances of HRT side effects, among them blood clots.
Cons
If the woman still has a womb, they have to take progesterone separately to reduce the chances of getting womb cancer.
Vaginal Suppositories
The process involves inserting the pessary or ring inside the vagina. Its content dissolves, doing away with vaginal dryness. Vaginal suppositories work well, especially with vaginal dryness.
Pros
- Instant pain relief, especially with vaginal dryness.
- Users are less susceptible to HRT side effects like breast cancer.
- Women who still have a womb can use these suppositories, even without progesterone.
Cons
- Vaginal discomfort
- Headaches, drowsiness, or mood swings.
Which is the Best HRT to Use?
The choice of hormone replacement therapy depends on various factors, among them age. If you experience a blood clot, do not use pills.
Also, the chemical composition of some HRT gels can lead to an increased risk of cancer if you prolong their use. Hormones may react with these chemicals, which might cause more harm than good.
In summary, use a therapy procedure with the fewest side effects to increase its effectiveness. Consult your physician before choosing the HRT to use.