When Should I Get Hormone Therapy

Although aging is inevitable, you have a choice in how you deal with the challenges that come along with it. If headaches, irritability, and hot flashes are wreaking havoc in your day-to-day life, and you’re considering hormone replacement therapy, this in

When Should I Get Hormone Replacement Therapy

Menopause affects every woman differently. Count yourself lucky if you’re among the 50% of women who never experience the woes that menopause can bring. But if menopausal symptoms interfere with your day-to-day life, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be an option.

Starting HRT is a decision you have to make as an individual after sitting down with your healthcare provider and discussing the benefits and risks. Every woman is different, and the right time for you may follow a different timeline than someone else. Some women wait until they’re 65, while others opt to start earlier.

If you’re considering hormone replacement therapy, here are some common scenarios where it’s beneficial.

When you’ve had a hysterectomy

If you’ve had a hysterectomy that removed not only your uterus, but your ovaries, too, your provider may recommend starting hormone replacement therapy following the procedure. While a hysterectomy effectively treats conditions like fibroids, you’ll no longer produce enough estrogen after your ovaries are removed. HRT can help relieve the symptoms you may experience related to sudden estrogen deficiency, sometimes called surgical menopause.

When you need short-term relief of menopausal symptoms

Not every woman experiences the uncomfortable symptoms that can come along with transitioning out of your child-bearing years. However, you may have frequent symptoms like trouble sleeping, night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, memory problems, and joint pains.

Some women are stricken with menopausal symptoms severe enough to interfere with their work productivity and overall quality of life. If menopausal symptoms are causing significant impairment, it might be the right time to start hormone replacement therapy. Taking HRT in the short term can alleviate your symptoms and help you as you go through the transition.

When you experience premature menopause

Premature menopause occurs when your ovaries fail before the age of 40. Sometimes this happens because of autoimmune diseases, hormonal disorders, or surgery. It can also be related to genetic factors. Because the impact of premature menopause on your physical health, emotions, and relationships can be significant, you may decide to start HRT and continue treatment until the usual age of menopause.

When you no longer produce enough estrogen, you also lose the protection that sex hormones provide against heart disease and osteoporosis, putting you at an increased risk. Replacing the missing hormones can not only help you feel better, but also reduce your risk so that you stay as healthy as other women your age.

When you have or are at risk for osteoporosis

If you have low bone density, a family history of osteoporosis, or other factors that put your bone health at risk, you may decide it’s the right time to take HRT. For years hormone replacement therapy has been used successfully to treat and prevent osteoporosis. Replacing estrogen can help slow bone loss and preserve the bone you have.

When you’re a male with low testosterone

Hormone deficiency isn’t just a female problem. Some men experience a premature drop in testosterone that can cause a loss of muscle mass and erectile dysfunction. If you’re experiencing an impairment in your quality of life caused by low testosterone, you may choose to start HRT to restore your vitality and vigor.

At Avante Laser and Medispa we use BioTE®, a bioidentical hormone that closely resembles the estrogen and testosterone that your body naturally makes. Therapy is in the form of a pellet injected under your skin, lasting three to six months. Unlike pills and creams, this form of HRT provides consistent hormone levels throughout the day.

Getting older doesn’t have to mean missing out on life. With HRT, you can remain healthy and feel good as you age. To find out if now is the right time for you to start HRT, request an appointment with our dedicated staff at our Houston or Woodlands clinic. Call our offices or book online today.